Local charity Agape House in Steinbach aims to support women and children in the Eastman region facing family violence through safe shelter, counselling and other forms of support.
Executive Director Tracy Whitby says they have been facing a busy season and are seeing people seek a safe shelter and “making steps forward.”
Agape House will receive funds from the Taste of Summer Charity Barbecue on Wednesday, July 26. A minimum of a two-dollar donation is required for a hotdog lunch, which includes condiments, chips and water, but attendees are encouraged to donate more for charity.
"We're super excited about tomorrow and having the opportunity to see everybody and raise lots of money for our program,” she says. “This year, we are earmarking those funds for activities for in-shelter participants. We want to be able to offer some outings and fun things and groups and get supplies and workbooks and all of those good things to be able to offer additional services to people that we serve.”
Whitby shares her excitement about experiencing the “wonderful aspects” of gathering with the community.
“We are a little bit more confidential, and it's a little more tricky,” she explains. “There's a little bit of a fine line to walk there. For us to be able to spend some time in the community and share about the work that we do and just talk to folks, it's fantastic. We really appreciate it.”
The Taste of Summer Charity Barbecue is held every Wednesday in July and August at the Steinbach Credit Union, on the corner of Main and Lumber. Community members are invited from 11 AM to 1 PM, or until supplies last, to have lunch and support local charities and their missions.
With files from Dave Anthony.