Adam Prudhomme
Editor
As the cost of living continues to rise, charities such as Lennox and Addington Interval House have seen their already tight budget get strained even further.
That’s why Michelle Dickerson, manager of resource development and communications for the women’s shelter, has come up with inventive ways for the public to support the work they do.
“We have lots of new ways that the community can support us,” said Dickerson. “It’s not necessarily giving us a monetary donation, we also have lots of gifts in kind and just all sorts of neat programs.”
One such way is to turn junk to treasure through Donate A Car Canada, which accepts vehicle donations on behalf of L&A Interval House. Free towing is provided in most areas or the cars can be dropped off to a donation location. Cars can either be in working condition or be used for scrap.
“They sell (donated cars) at auction, it depends on the shape of the car, they do an assessment and a value is given as a tax receipt,” said Dickerson. “It’s basically a way you can get rid of your junk and support a local charity. This organization is absolutely phenomenal to work with and there’s no charge to our organization or agency, they take care of everything magically.”
Another way to support the shelter is through monthly recurring donations. For donors this method is convenient, flexible and comes with one cumulative tax receipt at the end of the year. For Interval House it provides a predictable budget and cash flow while reducing administration costs. Monthly donations can be set up through CanadaHelps. In memory donations are also another way to support the shelter with donations over $1,000 being honoured under Interval House’s recognition program. Planned giving through life insurance or bequests are also welcome.
Those looking to benefit the shelter may also choose to organize a third party event such as fundraising tournaments, barbecues, car washes or yard sales.
Dickerson says donations of gift cards are also extremely helpful to their clients who often have very little with them as they start a new chapter in their life leaving a domestic violence situation.
For more information on how to support the shelter, visit https://www.intervalhousenapanee.ca/ways-to-give.
Monetary donations aren’t the only way to help either as the shelter is always in need of volunteers who are willing to run errands on their behalf, such as picking up food donations from area stores. Volunteers can also help with transporting clients to appointments or even offering their expertise to help teach some valuable life skills.
Established in 1992, L&A Interval House provides safe shelter and transitioning housing for abused women and their children, be it physically, sexually, emotionally or financially.