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The impact donations have on the MHWSS

Mar 10, 2019 | 2:10 PM

 

MEDICINE HAT, AB – The seventh annual Bread and Roses Gala in support of the Medicine Hat Women’s Shelter Society (MHWSS) took place last night.

Executive Director Natasha Carvalho says this is their biggest fundraiser of the year.

“We’ve raised almost $460,000 over the seven years,” explained Carvalho. “So, it’s a lot of money, but it manages to go a long way and we have a very generous community.”

Those in attendance were treated to an international dinner and also had the opportunity to bid on auction items as well.

“All the money raised will be kept local. It will be used towards our programs and services. We run an emergency shelter, a second-stage shelter, a housing first program, an outreach program, children’s programs, a day care, so it’s a whole gamut of programs.” 

Guests then had the opportunity to meet a client of the MHWSS, Stacey Wallis.

Wallis was the guest speaker of the evening and shared her story after going through what she described as a ‘high-conflict divorce’.

“I have two daughters, they were 13 and 15 at the time,” explained Wallis. “We were connected to the outreach program with the MHWSS for their counselling services and support. It was essential for my daughters and I, so we could get through it and learn how to live differently now.”

Wallis says her divorce was devastating and the support from the Women’s Shelter allowed her to get through one of her darkest times.

“I needed counselling and guidance and help for my daughters and I needed someone to listen. I also wasn’t in a financial position to go through a psychologist or private care with counselors.”

Wallis says never in a million years did she think she would be in this position, but it just goes to show that it can happen to anyone.

“Everyone needs to understand, their money is helping so many people in the community. So many kids, families and for us, I wouldn’t be where I am right now if it wasn’t for the MHWSS.”

And even though it’s been a difficult two-years for Wallis and her daughters, she says she’s slowly starting to see the light at the end of the tunnel.

“The MHWSS gave me hope back that I had lost. There’s no greater gift.”

Typically, in these situations, the guest speaker prefers to remain anonymous. For Wallis though, that wasn’t the case.

“I feel really proud to represent all those out there that have got help and maybe don’t have the ability to speak or tell their story.”

And if you or anyone you know is struggling, Wallis says the best thing a person can do is talk about it.

“Even if you’re just feeling overwhelmed, you don’t need to suffer on your own. Don’t just rely on friends and family, don’t hold it in. Let it out. Go and talk to someone. It really does help.”