As Christmas approaches and temperatures drop, we all longingly look forward to this special time of the year. Lights, mistletoe, decorations, presents, warmth, family, home – aren’t these some of the very best parts of the holiday season?

To a single mom fleeing domestic violence and to a child separated from his or her family, Christmas doesn’t look the same.

Think of the financial and emotional burden that some of our vulnerable women and their families go through. The sorrow is unimaginable when we think of the children at YWCA Regina’s Blue Turtle Rock House or one of our other three Children’s homes, who are eagerly awaiting family reunification.

Last year, more than 700 women and children found safety and support within the walls of our shelters as they fled situations of intimate partner violence. Unfortunately, the need continues to be much greater than the capacity and nearly 4000 women and children who needed help, were turned away.

Our hope for every Christmas is that women and children are safe in their own homes and our shelter beds are empty. This year our Christmas wish will not be granted – Sadly our shelters are full – for now, our Christmas mission is to give a little hope, a little joy, and a lot of love to those who are with us this holiday season.

This year make Christmas a little brighter for those who need their spirits lifted the most!!