Van Kam Celebrates Int’l Women’s Day, Donates to Women’s Centre

In celebration of International Women’s Day, Van Kam has donated to the Downtown Eastside Women’s Centre (DEWC), a charity that has provided a safe space for women and children in Downtown Eastside since 1978.

Empowering Women

Van Kam’s support of the DEWC is just one of the many ways we’re committed to positively impacting the lives of women and their families. With our donation, Van Kam is helping to ensure that the Centre can continue to provide vital services to support those women in need.

“We believe in empowering women and are also playing our part by promoting gender equality in all aspects of our business,” says Lenore Henry, Van Kam’s Co-Director of Charities & Donations. “From equal job opportunities to promoting a supportive work environment, we strive to create a workplace where women can succeed and thrive,” she adds.

Making a Difference in the Lives of Women

The Downtown Eastside Women’s Centre connects women with a continuum of services, including outreach, advocacy, wellness, recreation, housing, and skills development, supporting them to make positive life changes. With five sites, including three shelters and two drop-in centres, DEWC serves an average of 940 women daily and helps over 100 women get placed in long-term housing yearly.

Throughout the pandemic, DEWC provided constant support in women’s lives, serving over 700 meals a day through their essential Meals Program. The Meals Program is a vital aspect of the Centre, and with the 7th Annual Herstory Fundraising Gala coming up soon, the goal is to raise $100,000 to sustain it.

A Meal for Every $5 Raised

The DEWC is having its 7th Annual Herstory Fundraising Gala on March 8, 2023, to celebrate International Women’s Day and sustain its essential Meals Program. The goal is to raise $100,000; for every $5, they can provide one meal. The program has been a constant source of support for the women, providing nearly 1000 meals daily, even throughout the pandemic.

“The Downtown Eastside Women’s Centre plays a vital role in our community with the programs and initiatives they have for our women and girls,” says Lenore. “We’re proud to support their efforts in providing a safe space and essential services for these women and children in need,” she says further.

Celebrating Women with a Touch of Creativity

The Herstory Fundraising Gala, which will be in person at the Vancouver Art Gallery, will be hosted by Madelaine McCallum, a gifted dancer, motivational speaker, facilitator, and MC — a true, multi-faceted creative. With a passion for creativity and a gentle yet powerful presence, Madelaine will surely bring a special touch to the event as International Women’s Day and the incredible work of DEWC are celebrated.

“As a company, we’re proud to be part of the sponsors of this year’s Herstory Gala,” says Lenore. “This is not the first Herstory Gala sponsorship we have provided, and we remain dedicated to supporting initiatives such as this, making a difference in our community,” she concludes.

Join the Celebration

International Women’s Day is a day to celebrate the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. By supporting DEWC, Van Kam is contributing to improving women’s lives and celebrating the women of our community. Let’s empower women and create a brighter future together by supporting DEWC. Click here to donate to the cause.

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