A growing list of South Island businesses supports the annual campaign to end homelessness among youth in the region.
The Threshold Housing Society’s annual winter Shine a Light campaign enters its eighth year with one significant added distinction – it’s now called Shine a Light on Ending Youth Homelessness.
While the word "ending" is new this year, it's always been the goal. Threshold Housing Society provides safe housing, support services and community to at-risk youth aged 15 to 24. The society also serves youth aging out of government care, fleeing violence or experiencing homelessness with 45 youth in the organization’s five homes and 18 units across Greater Victoria.
“To end youth homelessness in Greater Victoria would take 450 units of housing, a complex safety net of support services, and active prevention. It will also take cooperation and coordination across all parts of the community. Shining a Light on Ending Youth Homelessness will help us start that coordination,” Threshold executive director Colin Tessier said in a news release.
The goal is to reflect Threshold’s understanding that ending youth homelessness in Greater Victoria is possible if the community works together.
The organization is grateful for the growing partnerships with local businesses to raise funds for at-risk youth.
Silk Road tea boxes and Crowfoot Collective three-inch beeswax pillar candles continue to raise funds for housing and support programs. Silk Road owner Daniela Cubelic has been part of Threshold’s campaign from the beginning.
“Small businesses like Silk Road have had to adapt, and shift, and adapt again the last few years, but that’s nothing compared to what some youth have had to survive. Each of us has the opportunity to give what we can. When we work together, it can add up to something meaningful. Knowing that, we’re proud to continue our part in Shine a Light,” Cubelic said.
This year, Chateau Victoria Hotel and Suites climbs aboard, aligning its annual Forest of Wishes campaign with Shine a Light. Chateau, Vista 18 and Clive’s Classic Lounge guests share their holiday wishes – by donation – on a tree display at the hotel’s entrance. The Shine a Light products will also be available to buy at the Chateau front desk.
Threshold has focused on local partners offering Shine a Light products, with Country Grocer a partner for several years, Urban Grocer returning for a second year, and a growing list of specialty shops including Adventure Clothing on Yates Street.
Check the growing list of partners or order online at thresholdhousing.ca/shinealight.
