Walking through Tudhope Park in Orillia for a good cause as more than 100 people walked a loop in support of Green Haven Shelter for women and violence against women. Krista Storey, executive director of Green Haven said the event is the first one they have done and are thankful for the support they received. “It was so meaningful to see so many people coming out again for a first time event,” said Storey. “We’ve had such great support from our incredible sponsors throughout the community, but also people came out. They came out with their children with the with their moms, their grandmas, their kids and, and their dogs as well.” Green Haven Shelter has 14 beds available for women who are leaving violent situations. “We provide 24/7 care for those experiencing gender based violence,” said Storey. “Last year alone, we, received more than a thousand crisis calls and we serve, women and children in shelter for a period of time is 6 to 8 weeks and an even longer, due to the housing crisis.” Jessica Gouveia, manager of administration and fundraising said an event like this is important for many reasons. “First off, for honoring the many women who have not had the chance to speak up about their own experiences that could not be here today,” said Gouveia. “The many women who are here today that have experienced violence at some point in their life and are apart of this community. Melissa White Fitness led the warm up for the walk and said it was amazing to see the community come together on Mother’s Day. “It was so beautiful to see everybody coming together, and it’s such a beautiful day, especially on Mother’s Day and having everybody, honor something that is so hard to deal with, but do it in such a positive way of just coming together,” said White.
