Join us at SCU tomorrow, Wednesday, July 31, to enjoy a delicious barbecue lunch and learn more about Agape House at the Taste of Summer Charity Barbecue.
Executive Director Tracy Whitby explains how Agape House helps our community.
“Agape House is a safe place for people fleeing domestic and family violence to come and rebuild their lives. We offer counselling and referrals and all those good things. But in addition to that, we also offer support to those who are not in the shelter. We recognise that people may have church families, friends or other supports where they can stay, but may still need counselling, advocacy, referrals or other such help.”
She says her team is working hard to make sure they can offer different programs, including housing, children’s programs, outreach, education and more.
“We are a very small team of very dedicated and passionate women and I am very proud of the work we do.”
Lisa Fast, housing and outreach coordinator, says donations from the barbecue will help expand their programs.
“As we respond to the ongoing needs of our community, we plan to create a dedicated counseling space and implement childcare services to better support those who arrive at the shelter.”
Whitby says she’s looking forward to the light-hearted event and the opportunity to meet more members of the community.
“We know the community supports us and we are incredibly grateful for the community that we live and work in. We are all a part of this community, but tomorrow is a fun day because our topic is not always fun to talk about. So we are really excited to be able to spend time with other members of our community, talk about what is going on in their lives. Come on, we want to meet you and hear what is going on with you.”
Fast says the barbecue is a great place to learn more about Agape House.
“We will be a team that will be happy to answer any questions you may have and we will all be wearing Agape House volunteer t-shirts. Come find one of us if you would like to talk privately, we will be happy to step aside and chat with you there.”
She continues: “You can always contact us through our website, www.agapehouse.ca. We are happy to work with the community in any way. We are always looking for volunteers for specific tasks and we have a volunteer manager, so you can always contact her. Volunteer@agapehouse.ca.”
Come to the corner of Main and Lumber Streets to enjoy a delicious BBQ lunch from 11am-1pm, or while supplies last and support Agape House.
Lunch requires a minimum donation of $2.00, but feel free to donate more!
With files from Dave Anthony
