Mother’s Day March advances women one step at a time

Pink flowers are seen at Green Haven Garden Centre in this undated file image. (CTV News)

The family-friendly walk honours the mothers, caregivers, grandmothers, and women who shape our lives, while standing alongside women and children in our community who are seeking safety, support, and a path forward.

The Mother’s Day March on May 10 at Orillia’s Tudhope Park is hosted by Green Haven Shelter for Women.

“At Green Haven Shelter for Women, we walk for more than awareness,” says Jessica Gouveia, manager of administration and fundraising.

“We walk to celebrate the strength of women, to recognize the care and resilience they bring to our families and communities, and to ensure that every woman has access to safety, dignity, and the opportunity to rebuild her life,” Gouveia said.

Gender-based violence remains a critical issue across Canada, with one in three women experiencing violence in their lifetime.

Locally, Green Haven provides emergency shelter, crisis support, outreach, and advocacy to women and children fleeing violence.

While the work is essential, it is not fully funded. Approximately 60% of Green Haven’s core operations are supported through government funding.

The organization must to raise more than $600,000 annually - roughly $50,000 each month - to sustain its services.

Many available grants are restricted to specific programs, meaning essential day-to-day costs such as staffing, food, utilities, and maintaining safe shelter space must be supported by the community.

The Mother’s Day March is designed to bring the community together in a way that is both celebratory and impactful by creating space to recognize the women in our lives while directly supporting those who need it most.

Join the Movement

Community members, families, and organizations are invited to take part:

Register or Donate:

Walk with us, set a personal fundraising goal, or support a participant.

Start a Team or Fundraise:

Gather friends, family, or colleagues and create a fundraising team. Every effort helps expand the impact of this event.

Become a Sponsor:

Green Haven continues to welcome additional sponsors and community partners to support this inaugural event and help build a lasting annual tradition.

Volunteer:

Support the day-of event and help create a welcoming, positive experience for all participants.

Share:

Help amplify the message by sharing the event with your networks and encouraging others to get involved.

Gouveia says “Every step you take honours the women in your life. Every dollar you give helps open doors for another.”