Men strapping on high heels this weekend
Walk a Mile in Her Shoes supports Gillian’s Place
Gillian’s Place is again asking the men of Niagara, “Are you man enough?”
The organization, which provides shelter, counselling and other services to assist abused women and children, is set to host its Walk a Mile in Her Shoes fundraiser on Saturday at The Pen Centre in St. Catharines.
Men are encouraged to participate in a symbolic march against societal restrictions placed on women, and specifically the issue of violence against women and children. The event is also aimed at showing men are willing to stand together with women in making the world a safer place.
All proceeds support Gillian’s Place, which provides a 24-hour support line, safe shelter, safety planning, emotional support, legal advice, transitional assistance and public education. All services are free and completely confidential.
Executive director Tanja Loeb said Gillian’s Place saw a 25 per cent increase in crisis shelter stays last year.
“This significant jump speaks to the critical need we are addressing in our Niagara community, and how important it is to ensure our services can handle the increase in demand,” said Loeb. “When we stand together and send the message that this behaviour is not tolerated, we remind women that there are options outside of their abusive relationship.”
There is still time to register for the walk at http://walkamileinhershoes.ca. Participants can walk individually or form a team to walk one mile at The Pen Centre. They are encouraged to collect pledges in support of Gillian’s Place. This year’s fundraising goal is $100,000, and as of Tuesday the organization had hit 55 per cent of its target. Registration for the walk begins Saturday at 9:30 a.m. in the mall’s event court. The opening ceremonies and walk take place at 11 a.m. An awards ceremony and lunch will follow.