It’s the season of giving back, so why not do so through the South Okanagan Women in Need Society’s (SOWINS) Share the Spirit of Giving campaign?
The society helps women and children living with or fleeing abuse and each holiday season they partner with the community and local organizations to ensure their clients can share in the joy of the season.
“For many of our clients, the holiday season is a difficult time,” said Debbie Scarborough, executive director of SOWINS, in a news release. “They may have left an abusive situation and are struggling to rebuild their lives. Often there is little or no money for special meals or gifts to help celebrate the holiday season.”
Those interested in contributing to the campaign can either donate to the society directly or bring in new, unwrapped gifts suitable for children, youth or mothers. Gift certificates, gift cards to local businesses and non-perishable food items will also be accepted.
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Donations can be dropped off at the society, located at 102-1027 Westminster Ave. W., between the hours of 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. on regular business days.
Individuals and businesses can also opt to sponsor a family this holiday season by contacting Stefanie Gale with SOWINS at fundraising@sowins.com.
Or those looking to give back can choose to sponsor a Spirit Backpack from $150 to $250 to help those currently experiencing homelessness. These backpacks are filled with food, warm socks and other wishlist items as well as resources to access community supports.
To learn more about the Spirit Backpack program and the types of items that can fill them, click here.
“It’s a simple gesture that has a big impact,” said Scarborough in the release. “We ask people to buy a backpack, and fill it with items like food, socks, warm clothing items, personal care items, toques, mitts and more. Our Mobile Outreach team then distributes them to youth and women living on the streets.”
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