The evening brought together some of Canada's top female entrepreneurs and cultural leaders including Margaret Atwood, renowned poet, novelist, and activist; Joanna Griffiths, Founder & CEO of Knix Wear Inc. and acclaimed journalist, producer, host, and survivor, Anna Maria Tremonti. 

Download Images here – Credit George Pimentel Photography (Photographer: George Pimentel) 

TORONTO, April 18, 2024 /CNW/ - Shelter Movers, a national, volunteer-powered charity that helps move individuals and families, primarily women and children, fleeing abuse and gender-based violence, hosted its inaugural fundraiser event, Close to Home on April 16th, raising over $900,000.

The event was marked by impactful moments, notably when keynote speaker Amy Kaufman shared her personal story of survival from intimate partner violence, transforming her trauma into a catalyst for advocacy and support. Additionally, panel moderator Anna Maria Tremonti facilitated a thought-provoking discussion, shedding light on the pervasive systemic barriers that perpetuate cycles of coercive control and violence. Through these compelling exchanges, the event fostered greater awareness, empathy, and empowered survivors of intimate partner violence.

• The live auction and Fund a Need saw exciting participation and raised over $260,000 (included in total).
• Shelter Movers Founder & CEO, Marc Hull-Jacquin, announced the 10th Shelter Movers location in Winnipeg, which will open later this year.
• Presenting Sponsor BMO, reflected on Shelter Movers' purpose, acknowledging its clear mandate and mission.
• Co-Chairs Dr. Toni Zhong and Emily Burnett reflected on the collective power and impact women hold when working together.

"Together with Shelter Movers, we are boldly growing the good to help women and children in Canada feel a little safer, a little stronger and a little more confident when they are risking everything," said Amanda Moss, Head of Community Giving Canada, BMO." 

"You being here tonight is catalyzing the ripple effect of positive change. We would like to thank all of you from the bottom of our hearts for being here," said Co-Chairs Dr. Toni Zhong and Emily Burnett. "

Generous sponsors for this year's event include: Bank of Montreal (BMO), Shoppers Foundation For Women's Health, Rogers Communications Inc. and Mantella Corporation.

For more information on the organization or to make a donation, please visit www.sheltermovers.com or www.canadahelps.org/en/dn/100368 and follow @sheltermovers on social media.

Shelter Movers is a national, volunteer-powered charitable organization that provides moving and storage services at no cost to individuals and families fleeing abuse. It is the only service of its kind offered in Canada. We collaborate with local businesses and community agencies to support people, primarily women and children, as they transition to a life free of violence. Founded in 2016, Shelter Movers has grown remarkably, expanding to 9 locations across Canada. To date, our team of dedicated volunteers have completed more than 6,000 moves for survivors of abuse.

SOURCE Shelter Movers