Since it was granted registered charitable status in 2007, the Manitoba Real Estate Association Shelter Foundation has improved daily life for many of our fellow citizens. Over $250,000 has been raised since inception, and in October of 2011, the Foundation granted $43,105 to five Manitoba-based shelter-related charities: Siloam Mission, Nova House Inc.; Habitat for Humanity® Winnipeg; North End Women’s Centre Inc.; and Esther House Inc. Watch the video below to see the difference Manitoba REALTORS® and others are making in our community.
A connecting point between the compassionate and Winnipeg’s less fortunate, Siloam Mission is a Christian humanitarian agency offering programs and services at no charge to those experiencing homelessness. Siloam Mission alleviates the hardships of the poor and homeless, assists in transitioning them into self-sufficient and generous lifestyles, and advocates nationwide on their behalf. The MREA Shelter Foundation grant will enable installation of a chair lift at the recently-purchased Madison Memorial Lodge on Evanson Street. The 87-unit housing complex will provide supportive housing for guests of the overnight shelter that wish to transition into self-sufficient lifestyles.
Nova House, incorporated in 1985, is a 14-bed facility providing shelter for abused women and children and is located in the Interlake region of Manitoba. Nova House affords temporary shelter, counselling, support groups, and referral to community resources for women and their children. Two interim housing units are also available for women and children to use until they become independent.
Habitat for Humanity® Winnipeg builds affordable homes for low-income working families to purchase. By offering families a hand up through no down payment and interest-free mortgages, these proud new homeowners gain esteem, stability, and security for their children that they never thought possible. Habitat relies on its thousands of passionate volunteers who help to build these homes and its many generous sponsors and partners that enable families and communities to share a brighter future. The MREA Shelter Foundation grant will support a home to be built in Portage la Prairie in 2012.
The North End Women’s Centre has been serving women and their families for over 25 years. The NEWC is a community-based organization that provides women with support, knowledge, and opportunity as they move forward on their journey towards independence and a healthier lifestyle. NEWC’s purpose is to provide a friendly atmosphere where women can receive the understanding, support, and resources they need to make informed choices about their lives. Resources include information, referrals, counselling, outreach, employment programs, transitional housing, groups and volunteer opportunities. The MREA Shelter Foundation grant will assist in the completion of Chriss Tetlock Place, housing the ‘addictions continuing and ongoing recovery’ program.
Esther House Inc. is a non-profit, community-based facility that provides shelter and support to women in second stage recovery from addiction. It is one of the few non co-ed places that exist where women can stay for a period of up to twelve months while making the transition back into society. Esther House is a safe house that provides the infrastructure necessary for women to heal, and gain confidence and self-esteem in order to continue their journey of life in recovery.
The Manitoba Real Estate Association Shelter Foundation is a non-profit charitable organization that raises money through organized events, projects, and donations from individuals and corporations, and in turn distributes these funds to shelter-related charities in Manitoba.
