For Immediate Release
Women and men take steps against domestic abuse in Calgary
CALGARY, September 19, 2017 – YWCA Calgary is proud to host the 12th annual YW WALK A MILE IN HER SHOES® presented by Shoppers Drug Mart today at noon. The fun event addresses a serious issue which impacts far too many families in our community – domestic abuse. Women and men will step into high heels and walk down Stephen Avenue from Palace Theatre to Olympic Plaza to support women and their children in our community.
This highly-anticipated event raises funds to support programs and services which enable women to live healthy lives and thrive in their community.
“The demand for services that support women experiencing domestic abuse unfortunately continues to increase,” says Sue Tomney, Chief Executive Officer, YW Calgary. “YW WALK A MILE IN HER SHOES®sheds light on the very serious issue of family violence and helps raise much-needed funds to support women and children experiencing family violence in Calgary.”
More than 200 women and men are registered to walk, with a mix of new participants as well as some experienced walkers, such as Ben Tsui, Team Captain of MINI Guys Taking Mini Steps and returning participant for his ninth year.
“As I reflect back on the last number of years, the camaraderie and challenge within our group is infectious, but at the heart of it, our goal – my goal – is to raise enough awareness and education to help erase the need for this event in the first place,” said Tsui, top fundraiser for YW WALK A MILE IN HER SHOES®. “We need to get the message out that family and domestic violence is never okay.”
For more information or to donate, visit walkamile.ca
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WHEN: Tuesday, September 19, 2017:
11:00 a.m. Participant check-in at the Palace Theatre
12:15 p.m. Walk begins
12:30 p.m. Media spokespeople available at Olympic Plaza
WHERE: The walk begins at the Palace Theatre (219 8 Ave SW) and follows Stephen Avenue east, ending at Olympic Plaza (MacLeod Trail SE and 8th Avenue entrance).
Media check-in at YW Calgary table on 8th Avenue walk at Olympic Plaza.
About YW Calgary:
YW Calgary is the largest and longest serving women’s organization in Calgary. For 106 years, we have focused on enhancing women’s safety and well-being while advocating for equity. In 2016, YW Calgary supported more than 6,800 Calgary women and their families. Together with our donors, government and other social agencies, we provide crisis shelter, transitional and supported housing, counselling, parenting supports, childcare, language and employment programs that help move women from crisis to stability.
Women-centred. Brighter-future focused.
ywcalgary.ca
For information please contact:
Carla Link
Cell: 587.228.8663 | clink@ywcalgary.ca
