Owen Sound, May 23, 2024 – The YMCA of Owen Sound Grey Bruce is proud to announce that they have received a record-breaking donation of $25,300 from 100 Women Who Care Grey Bruce. This generous contribution, the largest to date from the philanthropic community group, will assist the YMCA’s support of individuals currently experiencing homelessness, both youth and adults, within our communities across Grey and Bruce. Specifically, the funds will be allocated to the assistance of Apartment Start-Up Fund, a crucial initiative aimed at supporting the transition from homelessness to housed, reducing barriers to accessing safe, secure and affordable housing.

The Stepping Stone to Home Apartment Start-Up Fund is designed to assist individuals and families transitioning from homelessness to secure housing. By providing one-time financial support to assist those in need acquire essential items for their new apartments, such as pots and pans, utensils, bedding, and other basic household necessities.

With over 250 individuals in the Grey-Bruce area currently without stable housing, the need for this support is more urgent than ever. The YMCA’s outreach staff provide direct support in assisting people to transition from temporary shelter to permanent housing, ensuring people have the necessary resources to live independently.

The YMCA’s efforts extend beyond immediate shelter needs. Through comprehensive services, the YMCA works diligently to help individuals secure long-term, sustainable housing. The program aims to break the cycle of homelessness and mitigate the effects of deep poverty, by offering people the tools and support they require to establish a stable home environment.

The donation from 100 Women Who Care Grey Bruce will significantly enhance the YMCA’s ability to support these efforts. By coming together, the members of 100 Women Who Care have demonstrated the power of collective giving and the profound impact it can have on the community.

“We are incredibly grateful to 100 Women Who Care Grey Bruce for their generous donation,” said Matt Shute, YMCA Director of Community Initiatives and Employment Services. “This funding will make a substantial difference in the lives of many individuals and families in our
communities. We have members of our community living on less than $750.00 per month and a room rental can easily cost twice that amount. People should not be forced to choose between food, shelter or shoes!” Shute further adds that this community driven donation helps to provide members of our communities with essential items needed to begin a new chapter with dignity and hope.

The 100 Women Who Care Grey Bruce is an organization that brings together 100 (or more) women from the Grey-Bruce area who are passionate about supporting local community causes. By combining their resources, they are able to make significant contributions to initiatives that are critical to overall community well-being.

The YMCA invites other community members and organizations to join in supporting the Stepping Stone to Home Apartment Start-Up Fund. Together, we can ensure that everyone in Bruce and Grey Counties has a place to call home.

For more information or to donate, please contact:
April Robinson, Manager of Fund Development, YMCA of Owen Sound Grey Bruce, april.robinson@osgb.ymca.ca, 519-376-0484 ext 253.

For media inquiries, please contact:
Matt Shute, Director of Community Initiatives and Employment Services, YMCA of Owen Sound Grey Bruce, matt.shute@osgb.ymca.ca, 519-371-9222.