Local philanthropists Anne West and Jeff Burchill have pledged $100,000 to support the ongoing relocation and redevelopment of Bluewater Health’s Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence Treatment Centre.
The hospital foundation said the two generous donors will match new contributions made toward the project, up to $100,000.
“Investing in our community is of the utmost importance to Jeff and I, and when we learned that one in three women and one in eight men in Canada will experience sexual violence in their lifetime, we decided this should absolutely be a priority in our charitable giving,” said West in a statement. “We are so fortunate to have a treatment centre in Sarnia-Lambton that provides safe and timely care during a highly traumatic period in a survivor’s journey. We hope that we can inspire and encourage others to donate to this essential space too.”
The Bluewater Health Foundation (BWHF) said the revitalization of the treatment centre will allow for a more spacious and comforting atmosphere for those accessing services.
“[Burchill and West's] substantial pledge will have a huge impact on survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence and human trafficking in the Sarnia-Lambton community, and we are so grateful for their advocacy and generosity,” said Foundation Executive Director Kathy Alexander. “Everyone knows someone who has been impacted by sexual violence; when you make a gift to the Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence Treatment Centre, you are giving hope to those patients during their time of crisis, when it’s truly needed most.”
The foundation has a current goal of raising $600,000 for the redevelopment project.
Those interested in supporting the Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence Treatment Centre can contact the foundation's office at (519) 464-4438 or visit its website.
A spring 50/50 campaign was also recently launched in support of the project and will run until June 12.
May is recognized as Sexual Violence Prevention Month.