The Wheatland Crisis Society (WCS) is working harder than ever to help those who are victims of domestic violence. For the last 5 years the need has grown for individuals and families who are seeking support and a safe place to try to begin again. 

WCS Business Development Specialist Natasha Fyfe explained why there is such a need for fundraising within the WCS.

"We are a government funded organization, however, that base funding has not changed since 2015 but the need has grown substantially and with escalating costs for food, basic needs, and utilities, the government funding is not sufficient at this time to provide for everyone in need." 

With a catchment that covers areas spanning from Trochu to Vulcan and Calgary to Brooks, the WCS is the only full service shelter that can assist individuals and families fully. 

Fyfe said all the funding goes directly towards making sure the WCS can provide the care people need.

"All of our fundraising goes towards daily operations from staffing to additional food and hygiene products needed, as well towards the programs provided to our support clients." 

WCS works with clients to ensure that they receive the immediate assistance they need when they first arrive as a resident or as an outreach client.  Some of the programs include a community kitchen program, communal living groups, and budgeting sessions. The WCS team also provides resources to assist in obtaining financial support and housing along with many other programs and resources.

On October 29 the WCS team will be bringing back their annual gala which will include dinner and live entertainment showcasing the Peterson family, followed by the Strathmore band 'The Locals'. 

The evening will continue with a DJ and dance; throughout the evening there will be a silent and live auction held. For those interested in donating to either auction or would like to be a sponsor for the event contact Natasha Fyfe at wcs.comms@wcsab.ca. 

Since the gala is held just before Halloween, the theme is a harvest masquerade gala. Those in attendance are encouraged to dress up, but it is not a requirement to come out to support the organization. 

The goal for the WCS is to come together as a community to break bread together and share what they have been doing over the past 29 years throughout Strathmore and the areas they support and showcase their goals for the future.  

Fyfe said the need for support is greater today than it has ever been and the initiative to interrupt domestic violence is growing. 

Tickets for the gala are now on sale until September 25th for $65/ticket or $500 for a table of 8, afterward, the ticket price will be $75/ticket, tickets can be purchased online through the WCS website strathmoreshelter.com.

Sponsored by the Wheatland Crisis Society 

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