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Tag: enewsletter

Home / enewsletter
04November
2025

Featured Willow Place Autumn 2025 Newsletter

November 4, 2025
Willow Place
Uncategorized
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Willow Place New Facility
Exciting news for expanded services

For years, the number of women and gender-diverse people in our region who need more violence prevention crisis and longer-term supports has been growing. Even thought Willow Place is helping more people than ever before, we have been operating over capacity for more than five years and often must turn people away. To address this urgent need, we are moving forward with plans for a new, purpose-built facility that will increase the number of crisis shelter beds, will provide improved living and program space, and  – for the first time – offer on-site transitional housing for people and families who need more time to heal and find housing.

Willow Place has acquired property in central Winnipeg which was honoured with a blessing from Indigenous elders in September. This was important to move forward in a good way, as although we are not an Indigenous organization, the majority of those we support in our violence prevention services are Indigenous women and their children. We were excited and grateful to receive a transformational donation from a local philanthropist who kick-started our fundraising and is making is possible to begin construction in the next few months. We invite you to learn more and, if you are able, make a gift toward creating the new Willow Place. You will be supporting thousands of people on their journey toward a safe and a better life.

HELP BUILD A NEW WILLOW PLACE CLICK HERE FOR INFO!


Fall Highlights
Indigenous cultural observances

September 30 was Truth and Reconciliation Day in Canada, otherwise known as Orange Shirt Day. This year, we enjoyed exceptional support from Manitoba-born Indigenous artist, Brooklyn Rudolph-Nicholas. Brooklyn was selected as the artist of the year by Walmart Canada for their Orange Shirt Day t-shirts, and she also wrote a grant to help Willow Place and others in the community.  The $4,500 grant allowed Willow Place to provide Brooklyn’s t-shirts, for all Willow Place shelter participants and staff.  Remaining t-shirts were distributed in the community by Brooklyn. Funds from all t-shirts sold will go to Indigenous residential school survivors.

Brooklyn’s t-shirt tells her family story and resonates with many Indigenous Canadians as well as with allies from diverse cultures: â€śThe children in the painting represent my grandparents, and all the children who have been impacted by Residential Schools. The holding of hands expresses the powerful connection shared with all those who endured these schools – a powerful symbol of unity and resilience. The eagle flying above represents love, one of the Seven Sacred Teachings shared among many Indigenous communities across Turtle Island. A reminder to always share love with all our relations. In the sky, the North Star shines bright. In Cree, this star is called Keewatin – know as the “Going Home Star.”

Willow Place shelter participants have benefited from previous grant-funded projects from Brooklyn over the past several years, including ribbon skirts and beautiful hand-made purses, all of which feature her deeply meaningful and inspiring original artwork. Thank you, Brooklyn – chii megwetch! 

Follow Brooklyn and learn more about her art: CLICK HERE FOR INFO!

October 4, 2025 – Missing and Murdered Women, Girls and Two-Spirit Peoples observance, NO MORE STOLEN SISTERS


Royal LePage Trek Updates
Mandy Brown and Nicole Hacault support Willow Place

We are thrilled to share that two Winnipeg Royal LePage realtors, Mandy Brown and Nicole Hacault are participating in the Royal LePage Shelter Foundation’s fundraising trek in Cambodia (October). All participants must apply and be selected, as participation is Canada-wide and limited. They must also fundraise a minimum of $5,000 and cover all travel expenses.

It’s not too late to help Mandy and Nicole support Willow Place:
SUPPORT NICOLE: CLICK HERE FOR INFO!
SUPPORT MANDY: 
CLICK HERE FOR INFO! 


Staff Feature
Meet Clinical Supervisor, Erin M

With over 30 years of diverse experience and a degree in psychiatric nursing, Erin M. is a valued member of the Willow Place Leadership Team and one of two clinicians in our busy shelter program. Erin also serves as President of the MGEU local for Willow Place, a role which includes a seat at the board table with Willow Place. Erin brings many strengths to our shelter program team, including her demonstrated commitment to violence prevention services.


Can you tell us a bit about your current role as Clinical Supervisor?
I share the role of Clinical Supervisor with Daniette B. We both oversee the counselling staff and provide day-to-day support and supervision. We help to ensure that counsellors are providing service within our clinical framework. We also work in conjunction with Kathy S, our Facility & Support Supervisor, to ensure all participant needs are being met.

Why did you choose to work at Willow Place?
I am passionate about working in the GBV (gender-based violence)field and the organization’s values fit with my own personal values.

Please describe your typical workday in three words.
Challenging, Rewarding and Unique.

What are the most challenging aspects of your work?
The systemic barriers our participants deal with in order to create a new life free from abuse.

What moments are memorable from your work experience?
When ex-participants contact us, and let us know that we made a difference in their lives.

Have you had mentors or individuals who inspired your during your career?
The previous Executive Director, Lesley L. Her vision of what Willow Place could be and transforming the way we provided service really spoke to my soul.  I would have to say that Marcie W, our current ED, is inspirational in how much “unseen work” she does for Willow Place and the dedication of our participants and staff.

Favourite song lyrics - Leonard Cohen
"Ring the bells, that still can ring,
Forget your perfect offering,
There is a crack, a crack in everything,
That's how the light gets in."

Autumn Wellness
by Pam Hadder, Community Supervisor

The change of seasons provides a natural opportunity for reflection and transition. As we experience colder weather and shorter daylight hours, it is a great time to take stock of wellness needs:
How will I stay active? THINGS TO DO:CLICK HERE FOR INFO!
Is there a new hobby I can try? WINNIPEG LEISURE GUIDE: CLICK HERE FOR INFO!
How can I eat healthier when fresh produce is less available, and stay within my budget?
CANADA FOOD GUIDE TIPS: CLICK HERE FOR INFO!

Reassessing your wellness needs this fall can also help to prepare for the long winter months. Consideration of daily activity, socialization, nutrition and rest needs are all important. There are many free online and community resources to help fulfill activity and social needs. Rest needs may extend beyond getting 6-8 hours of sleep, to include taking breaks from technology, and taking time for self-care.
LEARN MORE:CLICK HERE FOR INFO!

EASY CARROT SOUP & CROUTONS – recipes to try!

We hope you will enjoy our Easy Carrot Soup with Savory Croutons  – hearty and humble, this comforting meal supports good health and is easy on the budget! As this soup is purĂ©ed, there is also less time and effort to prepare and cut vegetables.
EASY CARROT SOUP INGREDIENTS:3 Tbsp./45 ml olive or canola oil
4-5 large carrots, peeled and coarsely chopped
3-4 celery stalks, washed and coarsely chopped
1 medium-large cooking onion, peeled and coarsely chopped
1-2 small-medium apples, washed, cored and coarsely chopped (no need to peel)
2 cloves fresh garlic, peeled, coarsely chopped
1 tsp/5ml sea salt
½ tsp/2.5 ml ground black pepper
1-2 bay leaves
2-3 Tbsp./30-45 ml grated fresh ginger root (TIP: freeze ginger, it is easier to grate)
1 Tbsp/15 ml dried and crushed sage
½ tsp/2.5 ml crushed red chilies (Optional: increase for spicier soup, or eliminate for milder soup)
½ cup/125 ml red lentils, rinsed well and drained
1 can coconut milk or 1.5 cups/375ml milk
8-10 cups of waterMETHOD:
Prepare all fresh ingredients. Measure oil into large soup or stock pot (3- 4 liter size). Heat to medium-low, and add onions, carrots, celery, apples, salt, pepper, garlic and bay leaves. Cover and simmer, stirring occasionally for 10 minutes, adding water if needed to keep from browning. Add ginger, sage, chili pepper, and stir to combine. Add lentils and the remaining water. Increase heat to bring to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally. Reduce heat, cover and simmer for 25 minutes. Remove from heat and blend until creamy with immersion blender (or glass food blender).  Return to low heat and stir in coconut milk or milk. Heat through on low for 5-7 minutes.

YIELD: 8 large servings of soup – serve with Savory Soup Croutons, below, with your favourite crackers, or a slice of fresh bread. This soup freezes well and can be portioned for lunches or busy-day dinners – just re-heat and serve.

SAVORY SOUP CROUTONS INGREDIENTS:
4 slices stale bread, cut into bite-size squares
1 Tbsp/15 ml olive or canola oil
½ tsp/2.5 ml granulated garlic
½ tsp/2.5 ml ground paprika
1 tsp/5 ml dried parsley flakes
Salt and pepper to taste

METHOD:
Measure oil into a medium, non-stick frying pan. Heat oil to medium-high. Add cubed bread and stir quickly to distribute oil over all bread pieces. Continue to stir bread, toasting pieces on all sides. As bread starts to toast, sprinkle on granulated garlic, paprika, parsley, salt and pepper. Continue stirring, reducing heat to low. When bread cubes are evenly toasted, remove the pan from heat, and move croutons into a heat-safe dish or bowl for serving over prepared soup. 


Donations and Fundraising
Thank you for your kind support!

Our team would like to acknowledge all monetary and in-kind donors who have supported our shelter program throughout recent months – your generosity fills many funding gaps, including in areas of food security, children’s and infant needs, as well as cultural and wellness programming.  

Upcoming third-party fundraising campaigns include Urban Barn’s Blanket the Country initiative and Shelmerdine Garden Centre’s Giving Tree Ornament campaign. If you visit these retailers in the next few weeks, please look for the fundraising details!  Shelmerdine’s Giving Tree ornaments will retail for $9.99 and all proceeds support local charities including Willow Place. Urban Barn locations will be matching customer donations for Willow Place, and will receive a discount for a future purchase (20% off $100 minimum purchase). The Urban Barn campaign begins November 1, 2025 and extends until September 30, 2026, and Shelmerdine’s ornament campaign will begin in October and runs thru December, or while stock lasts.

Currently, Willow Place is collecting wish list items including, non-perishable food items, hygiene products (toothpaste, shampoo and deodorant are urgent needs), new or gently-used towels, blankets, and unwrapped gifts for women and children for the holiday giving season.

View our complete donation WISH LIST here: CLICK HERE FOR INFO!

Each November is recognized as DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AWARENESS month in Manitoba, and Willow Place is also collecting new pajamas for women and children in our shelter program. Through our annual POWER OF PJS campaign, we aim to acquire 250 pairs of pajamas, representing the average number of women and children we will support this winter.

If you have questions or wish to donate, please call Pam at 204-615-0313, ext. 237 or Kimi at 204-615-0313, ext. 245 (weekdays, daytime hours) – THANK YOU!

This year will mark the 6th Annual HOCKEY HELPS THE HOMELESS fundraising event! Willow Place is grateful to be among the three beneficiaries of the event, each supporting homeless populations in our region: Willow Place, Red Road Lodge and Resource Assistance for Youth (RAY).

Willow Place community team members participate on the local committee and provide locker room talks for teams on game day.  This year, Willow Place also supported the women’s league in advance of the event date providing support with fundraising raffles. We were also able to provide support for the rainbow and online auctions that will be part of both draft night and game day activities.

Volunteer, purchase a company pennant, sponsor, or donate:
CLICK HERE FOR INFO!


enewsletterfamilyviolencepreventionGBVHHTHHockey Helps the Homelessmanitobapowerofpjsshelterviolenceviolencepreventionwillowplacewinnipeg
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08August
2024

Summer 2024 E-Newsletter

August 8, 2024
Willow Place
News
0

Summer Wellness

Safe enjoyment of the warm summer months requires both awareness and planning. In particular, heat, sun exposure and insects pose risks to both comfort and health:

1) HEAT: higher temperatures coupled with humidity can increase risk for heat stroke and dehydration
2) SUN EXPOSURE: without adequate protection, sun exposure risks include sun burn, and long-term skin damage, including premature aging of skin and skin cancer
3) INSECTS: awareness and protective measures for mosquitoes, wood ticks and black flies are essential, particularly with young children and pets, who are dependent on care-givers

Here are a few tips to consider when planning your summer outings:
1) Try to avoid PEAK HOURS of day when temperatures and ultra-violet radiation risks tend to be the highest (10 a.m. to 2 p.m.)
2) Carry adequate FRESH WATER and wash water bottles daily with hot, soapy water to avoid gastric distress from bacteria
3) Wear a SUN-HAT or head covering, use a sun umbrella, or SEEK SHADED AREAS
4) Dress in LIGHT, BREATHABLE LAYERS, considering coverage of areas for highest sun burn risk (e.g., shoulders, arms)
5) APPLY SUNSCREEN prior to spending time in direct sunlight, and reapply every 2-3 hours, or after getting wet or if sweating
6) For both mosquitoes and ticks, AVOID LONG GRASS and wooded areas
7) Mosquitoes are most active at DAWN and DUSK – avoid activities during these times
8) Mosquitoes like dark colours, so cover up in LIGHT-COLOURED loose-fitting clothing, and spray exposed skin with insect repellent
9) Mosquito bites can be very itchy, but RESIST SCRATCHING – itch and red bumps usually disappear within 24-48 hours – consider cold packs to reduce redness and itch, and/or use a paste of baking soda and water. Antihistamine creams may also provide relief.
10) For tick protection, WEAR LONG PANTS and boots or runners with socks, tucking trouser legs into socks – thoroughly check children, adults and pets for ticks at the end of your outing, including scalp and undergarments.
11) If a TICK HAS BITTEN and is stuck to the skin, apply a blob of petroleum jelly – the tick will smother and be easily removed, or will drop off. Alternatively, pull straight up with tweezers – do not twist while pulling. Dispose of ticks by wrapping with tape and discarding, flush in toilet, or burn (e.g., campfire). Some ticks carry LYME DISEASE and are potentially dangerous to pets and humans for this reason. Watch for symptoms including a localized, red rash if you have been bitten. If rash occurs, seek medical attention.

HOME-MADE SPORTS DRINK
Ingredients:
240-300 ml (8-10 ounces) cold water or carbonated water
Small pinch of sea salt
90 ml (3 ounces) natural orange juice
30 ml (1 ounce) natural, unsweetened cranberry juice
1-2 wedges of fresh lemon or lime
Method:
Combine all ingredients in large glass or water bottle – can be served over ice. Makes 12-14 ounce serving.

PINEAPPLE REFRESHER
Ingredients:
125 ml (1/2 cup fresh cucumber slices)
250 ml (1 cup) fresh or frozen pineapple pieces
540 ml-600 ml (18-20 ounces) cold water
A few leaves of fresh mint
Ice cubes – add to desired consistency
Method:
Place cucumber, pineapple, mint and water into blender, blending until smooth. Add water to make desired consistency.  Add ice to desired consistency. Servings: 1 – 2 adults

Staff Feature – Erin H.

Erin H. is Willow Place’s Children’s Program Specialist – violence prevention shelter program.
                                Thank you, Erin for participating in our summer e-newsletter!


What are your favourite aspects of your current role?
I spent my first 1.5 years at Willow Place working with adult women, and as much as I loved that position, I think I truly found my calling and my passion when I began working as the Children’s Specialist. I particularly enjoy using play therapy as a tool to learn a child’s history, to help them problem solve, and to help with learning coping skills. Some children may not have the verbal language to express feelings and experiences, and play helps them communicate and learn. I find this very rewarding as I often can see immediate results.

Why did you choose to work in the violence prevention sector?
I felt this would be a field where I could make a tangible impact, and I still feel that way today. When I help mothers, I know I am also helping their children and other family members, and vice versa. By helping one family member, you can support the family unit.

Please describe your typical work day in three words
Rewarding, challenging and creative, as I have to adapt my approach to each child and family.

What personal qualities and strengths help you meet the daily demands of your role?
I am very comfortable with being flexible. I enjoy that every work day is different and can change at any moment. This keeps each day interesting and I am able to stay calm even when plans change suddenly. I also enjoy being around children, which is great as I spend a good deal of my day in the play area rather than at a desk.

What are the most challenging aspects of your work?
The stories we hear in the violence prevention sector are especially heartbreaking and emotionally upsetting through the lens of a child. Therefore it is crucial that I engage in self-care and regular check-ins to ensure I can do my job well and maintain my well-being.

Who do you admire; who inspires you in your work?
My co-workers are a big inspiration for me. Seeing the compassion and patience they show each participant makes me strive to do the same. We share an excellent work ethic and camaraderie within Willow Place, and I enjoy being a part of this team.

Can you share a recent success or something you are excited about?
Since taking on my role as Children’s Specialist, I have worked with my supervisor, Daniette O., to facilitate a brand new program for in-shelter families called SOAR. The acronynm, SOAR, stands for Support, Optimism, Acceptance, and Resilience – traits that we consistently see our clients exhibit and develop, and which we strive for as staff members. SOAR provides mothers the opportunity to learn emotional regulation, communication and parenting skills, as well as pass these skills along to their children through mother-child activities. Helping to kick-start SOAR and hearing the positive feedback is an accomplishment I feel proud of.

Volunteer Excellence – Shelley S.

This spring, Willow Place was fortunate to have volunteer support for our outside growing areas. Support volunteer, Shelley S., loves to garden and she assisted us with clean-up, weeding, and planting.  Shelley has also offered invaluable support for food services in the shelter program.

We appreciate you, Shelley – thank you for your generous spirit and many talents!

Are YOU one of the 500?

Were you aware that monthly donation subscriptions are available through Canada Helps?  Canada Helps is a secure, online platform that enables donors to provide monetary donations for charities.  Willow Place continues to promote the online giving program with a goal to obtain 500 new monthly subscribers. Reaching this goal would provide Willow Place with assured monthly funds to bridge current funding gaps, and would enable us to better-serve increasing numbers of program participants.

 Just $10 to $20 a month can make a difference, and helps Willow Place support those in need!  
                                             DONATE TODAY: CLICK HERE TO DONATE!

Summer Day Camp Kick-Off

In June we were happy to welcome our summer day camp workers, students Celina R. and  Kera M. The summer day camp program begins when our shelter teacher takes summer vacation (June), and extends throughout the month of August. The summer day camp provides, recreation, creative play, respite for parents, and includes a variety of community outings that would not be possible without community donations! Heartfelt appreciation to the following organizations that are supporting the program with free passes and admissions this summer: Manitoba Museum, Winnipeg Art Gallery Art Reach Program, the Manitoba Children’s Museum, The Royal Aviation Museum of Western Canada, the Canadian Museum of Human Rights, Assiniboine Park Conservancy (The Leaf and Zoo), and the Winnipeg Goldeyes.

We’re Hiring! Career Opportunity

Visit our careers page for info and to apply: CLICK HERE!

Violence Prevention – Why it matters

Violence against women remains the number one global human rights issue. More often than not, women experience violence within family or intimate partner relationships – it is unusual for women to experience violence from a stranger. In fact, over 85% of family violence and intimate partner violence incidents reported to police involve female victims. In 2016, the Public Health Agency of Canada identified family violence as the number one public health issue in Canada. At that time, it was estimated that the cost to Canadians exceeded $7 billion annually. At the time of the PHAC report, a Canadian woman lost her life to family violence every six days, and today that statistic is every 2.5 days.

Family violence includes an array of abuses including spousal abuse, elder abuse, sibling conflict, and other family or close relationship conflicts. Children who witness or experience family violence are at risk of lifelong negative impacts to their health, mental health and development.  Family violence also increases homelessness risk and, due to prolonged experiences of stress, may impact all metrics of human health, including gastro-intestinal health, reproductive health, heart health, and mental health, as well as diseases like arthritis and cancer.

Willow Place provides inclusive, confidential, no-cost support for diverse violence prevention needs in Manitoba. This means that any person, any culture, any gender, and at any age or life stage can contact us 24-hours for information or support.  Willow Place services include: 24-hour phone, text and chat supports; outreach counseling, short-term protective shelter, shelter program counseling, follow up program for those departing from shelter, children’s supports, men’s services, and public education services.

It is important to recognize that family violence and abuse incidents may be life-threatening, and those seeking our help have limited means and have exhausted all supports. The majority of Willow Place energies and resources are currently directed toward the crisis support and shelter aspects of violence prevention services.  

WERE YOU AWARE?
Our community team provides no-cost presentations on Willow Place services and topics related to violence prevention. For information call 204-615-0313, ext. 237 (weekdays/daytime).




enewsletterfamilyviolencepreventionGBVmanitobashelterviolenceviolenceagainstwomenwillowplacewinnipegwomen
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09May
2024

Willow Place Spring 2024 E-News

May 9, 2024
Willow Place
News
0

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Mother’s Day

RISK FACTORS FOR WOMEN
As we prepare to celebrate mothers this May, we are also acutely aware that violence against women remains the number one global human rights concern. Although all people, genders and cultures are welcome to reach out to Willow Place for violence prevention supports, the vast majority of those we help are women and children. Sadly, expectant mothers and mothers with young children face higher risk factors for intimate partner and family violence.  When thinking of violence against women, it is important to know that most often the abuser or abusers are family members, intimate partners or close connections of the victim.

This Mother’s Day, please consider helping Willow Place sustain no-cost supports for women and children forced to flee violent situations. You can make a one-time donation, or become a monthly subscriber by clicking here: https://www.canadahelps.org/en/dn/27770

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Summer Day Camp

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DONORS AND GRANTS SUPPORT CHILDREN
Every year in late June through the month of August, Willow Place offers a summer day camp program for children in our violence prevention shelter program. This program is made possible thanks to annual staffing grants from Canada Summer Jobs. Willow Place also reaches out to recreation organizations and museums to provide enriching and educational options for the day camp. For most of our shelter children and their parents, these outings are a first-time experience.

Thanks to these exceptional organizations who have already pledged free admissions for summer day camp attendees: Royal Canadian Aviation Museum of Western Canada, Assiniboine Park Conservancy (Zoo and the Leaf), and the Manitoba Museum! 

Willow Place is currently accepting job applications from university or college students who are returning to school in fall 2024. For info and to apply:  https://ca.indeed.com/viewjob?cmp=Willow-Place-Inc&t=Camp+Counselor&jk=c53e68318b294188&xpse=SoDO67I3CQEo1twYoZ0LbzkdCdPP&xkcb=SoDd67M3D-KXJ4Qxmx0JbzkdCdPP&vjs=3

Staff Feature

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MEET SHELTER PROGRAM TEACHER, MRS. S.
How long have you been in your current role?
I started with a half-time position in February, 2016. The Director and Board felt strongly that children should have full-time school, so they hired me on a contract basis to work with the children in the afternoons. In 2019, the Department of Education, now known as Inclusion Support Branch of Manitoba Education and Early Childhood Learning, funded the program full-time.

Please describe your typical work day in three words:

Awe-inspiring, Interactive, Safe

Why did you choose to teach in the shelter setting?

The principal of Interdivisional Student Services, Dee Smith, call me and offered an interview for the teaching role at Willow Place. We met at a Safeway and she drove me to Willow Place for a tour, to see if I was interested in the position. I went for the tour and, as they say, “the rest is history!” I have loved every day since then.

Have there been “aha” moments from teaching you can share?
I was teaching a grade three student who was behind in their reading. He was at a grade one level. We worked on learning the sounds of the letters using McCracken spelling. He said,”I didn’t know you could sound out words.” After working on the letters, he was able to start writing words and he was reading books by the time he left shelter. 

What are the most challenging aspects of your work?
The most challenging aspect of my job is when children are turned off of school because of the trauma they are facing, being in a house where they have witnessed domestic violence, and the teacher does not understand. The beauty of our school is we work on helping children get their brains out of fight and flight mode, and into social engagement and their brains can learn again.

Who influenced your career choices as a student?
I cannot think of a particular teacher that influenced me, but I knew that I wanted to work with children.

Can you share a quote or song that inspires you?

“Find something you care about, and live a life that shows it.” – author unknown

Our shelter classroom and full-time teacher (grades K-8) is provided by Interdivisional Student Services, Winnipeg School Division, and funded by the Inclusion Support Branch (Manitoba Education and Early Childhood Learning).
 
THANK YOU, MRS. S. –  WE’RE SO GLAD YOU ARE PART OF OUR TEAM!

Pink Walls

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PERFORMER SUPPORTS VIOLENCE AWARENESS
In recent weeks, Willow Place was contacted by Canadian pianist and singer-songwriter, Esther Ling. Esther released her debut single, Pink Walls, and wanted to share it with violence prevention charities Canada-wide. The song is about the impact of violence upon children, and tells the story of trauma and recovery. In this poignant song, a young woman recalls the pink walls of her childhood bedroom where she hid from family violence.

Listen to Pink Walls: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AlYeveZBPxQ
About Esther Ling: https://www.estherlingpianist.com/
Follow Esther: https://www.instagram.com/estherlingpianist

Thank you, Esther for sharing your beautiful artistry with us!  Watch for an upcoming public education series on our social media this June aligned the United Nations’ June 4 observance, International Day of Innocent Children Victims of Aggression (Child Victim Day), featuring the beautiful music and lyrics of Esther Ling’s, Pink Walls.

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Spring Wellness

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RAINBOW INSPIRATION FOR IMPROVED HEALTH
Spring is finally here and it is a great time to revisit wellness goals. When it comes to nutrition, more and more health promotion organizations are recommending “eating the rainbow” for improved well-being. Based on the Mediterranean diet consisting of an array of colourful vegetables and fruit, healthy fats and moderate, lean proteins, eating the rainbow has been shown to support immune and heart health, as well as healthy weight goals. Possibly you have heard the phrase, “we eat with our eyes” – enjoying food truly is a sensory process involving taste, scent, texture and sight. Beyond improved appearance and sensory aspects, selecting a wide variety of colourful foods helps to ensure that a healthy assortment of essential nutrients, vitamins, and fibre are present in the daily diet.

Want to learn more? Here are some helpful links to get started:
RAINBOW EATING BASICS: https://the-rainbow-diet.com/articles/the-colourful-mediterranean-diet/what-can-i-eat-on-the-real-rainbow-diet/
RAINBOW RECIPE BOOK:
https://www.amazon.ca/Rainbow-Recipes-Inspired-Health-Benefits/dp/095653919X

Inspiring Community Support

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PEGCITY STEPPERS COMBINE ACTIVE LIVING & ACTIVISM!
Earlier this spring, Willow Place was fortunate to receive very generous donation support from a Winnipeg active living group called PegCity Steppers. This group meets regularly to exercise and connect socially. Although they started as a BIPOC activity group, all cultures are welcome and invited to participate.  All levels of fitness are also included and encouraged to participate. Members benefit in many ways, including through improved motivation and resulting fitness outcomes! 

Aside from their dynamic healthy living focus, the Steppers also like to incorporate community support into their activities. On March 8th they hosted an International Women’s Day get-together, including a virtual presentation on Willow Place services and the topic of violence prevention. Those attending brought priority donations for Willow Place’s busy violence prevention shelter program, which were later delivered to our community outreach/flex office by PegCity Steppers founder, Shana, and member, Meridith.

We are so inspired by PegCity Steppers and are grateful for the awareness they raised. Additionally, their monetary gifts, and a large collection of toiletries, hygiene, and self-care items will greatly-benefit vulnerable populations in our shelter program. 

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How to Help

VIOLENCE PREVENTION – WE NEED CARING COMMUNITY
Increasingly, Willow Place relies upon both monetary and in-kind donations to sustain no-cost, 24-hour violence prevention supports for Manitobans in crisis. If you would like to help out, but are unsure what to do, there are many ways to offer support! No support is too small  – every supportive action has potential to positively impact for those in need. Here are a few options and ideas:

  • Follow us on social media – please like and share
  • Subscribe to and read our quarterly e-news – share with your contacts
  • Consider becoming a MONTHLY DONATION SUBSCRIBER – just $10 or $20 monthly can have a big impact for those in need, and subscriptions make great gifts as well! CLICK HERE!
  • Check out our shelter program WISH LIST and call 204-615-0313, ext. 237 or ext. 231 to set up your donation drop-off appointment CLICK HERE!
  • Purchase something on our AMAZON WISH LIST ((insert link here)) and contact us re: drop off (same as above) CLICK HERE!
  • Donate gently-used towels or blankets for the shelter program
  • Donate household items and clothing to our community partners, Centre Flavie-Laurent and The Helping Hand (these cannot be accepted at the shelter program due to space and staffing limitations)

 Questions? Need more information? Call 204-615-0313, ext. 237 (weekdays, daytime)

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November 4, 2025
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July 17, 2025
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April 15, 2025

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We envision a future where healthy relationships flourish. Inclusive, no-cost, 24-hour violence prevention services and supports.

Shame, stigma, normalization of violence, fear of Shame, stigma, normalization of violence, fear of abusers, and lack of information about resources, are reasons victims do not seek help.

24-hour info and support: 1-877-977-0007
Winnipeg: 204-615-0311
Text-only line: 204-813-8887

#willowplace #manitoba #GBV
THANK YOU! We received amazing donation support f THANK YOU!  We received amazing donation support from MB Women in Construction!
Your generosity means so much to those sheltering with us :)

#willowplace #donate #GBV #shelter #homelessness #manitoba #wherehealingbegins
Winnipeg Humane Society's SAFEPET program provides Winnipeg Humane Society's SAFEPET program provides free foster parent shelter for pets while owners are in #shelter.

More info: https://ow.ly/vCYJ50WB0Pv

#GBV #shelter #safepet #winnipeg #violenceprevention
It's INTERNATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS DAY & the final da It's INTERNATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS DAY & the final day of the 16 DAYS OF ACTIVISM - digital violence primarily targets women and girls and poses increasing danger. 

LEARN MORE - TAKE ACTION:
https://ow.ly/TAwW50WQBCW

#NoExcuse #ACTtoEndViolence #willowplace #GBV #manitoba
We provide inclusive, no-cost support for diverse We provide inclusive, no-cost support for diverse family violence and gender-based violence prevention in Manitoba.  24-hours - confidential

Call: 1-877-977-0007 or 204-615-0311

#willowplace #manitoba #gbv #vaw
Any person, any gender experiencing family violenc Any person, any gender experiencing family violence, gender-based violence or intimate partner violence can contact us for info and support 24-hours: 1-877-977-0007 or 204-615-0311 

Text line: 204-813-8887

#willowplace #shelter #gbv #vaw #manitoba
The holiday season is especially difficult for #vi The holiday season is especially difficult for #violence survivors - each year we collect gifts and essential needs for our shelter guests.  Please share & help if you can - THANK YOU!

Collection deadline is December 19!

#willowplace #violenceprevention #manitoba #GBV #shelter
Our participants have diverse needs and have most- Our participants have diverse needs and have most-often exhausted all means of support.

24-hour help or info:
Phone 204-615-0311
Text 204-813-8887

#willowplace #familyviolenceprevention #manitoba #GBV
It's Day 15 of 16 DAYS OF ACTIVISM - digital viole It's Day 15 of 16 DAYS OF ACTIVISM - digital violence primarily targets women & girls, including online & offline #digitalviolence takes many forms & the threat is growing

LEARN MORE - TAKE ACTION:
https://ow.ly/yWVC50WQBxf

#NoExcuse #ACTtoEndViolence #willowplace #GBV #manitoba
You DO NOT have to enter shelter to access free, c You DO NOT have to enter shelter to access free, confidential #violenceprevention counseling. Call for information and to book an appointment.

#willowplace #manitoba #wherehealingbegins #GBV
Need some extra $$$? LAST WEEK to PURCHASE!!! We a Need some extra $$$? LAST WEEK to PURCHASE!!!
We are happy to be a beneficiary of the next Kinsmen 50/50 Raffle.
Purchase your tickets and support #violenceprevention in #manitoba  THANK YOU!

To purchase: https://www.rafflebox.ca/raffle/kinsmenwinnipeg5050/5
It's Day 14 of 16 DAYS OF ACTIVISM - digital viole It's Day 14 of 16 DAYS OF ACTIVISM - digital violence primarily targets women and girls, including both online and offline attacks and victimization.

LEARN MORE - TAKE ACTION:
https://www.unwomen.org/en/what-we-do/ending-violence-against-women/unite/theme

#NoExcuse #ACTtoEndViolence #willowplace #GBV #manitoba
Any person, any gender experiencing family violenc Any person, any gender experiencing family violence, gender-based violence or intimate partner violence can contact us for info and support 24-hours: 1-877-977-0007 or 204-615-0311 

Text line: 204-813-8887

#willowplace #shelter #gbv #vaw #manitoba
We provide inclusive, no-cost support for diverse We provide inclusive, no-cost support for diverse #violenceprevention needs in #manitoba
through crisis, emergency shelter, outreach and public education services.

24-H info and support: 1-877-977-0007 or 204-615-0311

#willowplace #GBV
It's Day 13 of 16 DAYS OF ACTIVISM - digital viole It's Day 13 of 16 DAYS OF ACTIVISM - digital violence primarily targets women and girls, and it takes a coordinated, committed effort to address the issues. 

LEARN MORE - TAKE ACTION:
https://ow.ly/GcVx50WQAFi

#NoExcuse #ACTtoEndViolence #willowplace #GBV #manitoba
Our hearts are full! THANK YOU to all who support Our hearts are full!  THANK YOU to all who supported our feminine hygiene donations and POWER of PJs donations in November. We have enough sanitary pads, but are still accepting new PJs for women and kids. 

See our complete DONATION WISH LIST here: https://willowplaceshelter.ca/wish-list/

#willowplace #shelter #GBV #manitoba
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The heart of our work is healthy relationships. Willow Place provides inclusive, no-cost family violence prevention services, 24-hours, every day of the year.

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