Calgary Book Sale Raises Critical Funds for Women Escaping Sexual Exploitation
The RESET Society of Calgary is currently accepting book donations for an upcoming sale that will generate vital funds to support women working to free themselves from sexual exploitation. Calgarians have until April 22 to contribute their gently used books to this important cause.
Sale Details and Community Impact
The collected books will be sold over two weekends in May at the Crossroads Market in southeast Calgary. The first sale weekend runs from April 30 to May 3, followed by a second weekend from May 8 to 10. Admission to the sale is $2, with children's books priced at a flat rate of $2 and softcover and hardcover books available for $4 each.
"It's quite important for our organization fundraising. We raise over $150,000," said Theresa Jenkins, executive director of RESET. "For the community itself, I think it raises awareness about the problem."
How Proceeds Support Survivors
The proceeds from this annual book sale fill approximately 12 percent of RESET's budget for recovery programs specifically designed for women survivors of trafficking. These funds directly support a comprehensive one-year transition program that provides survivors with essential resources including:
- Food and nutritional support
- Clothing and personal items
- Safe shelter and housing assistance
- Medical attention and healthcare services
The organization also offers specialized addiction recovery programs overseen by medical doctors for those struggling with substance abuse issues. Upon completing the one-year program, graduates receive continued support through scholarship opportunities for returning to school or job placement assistance for entering the workforce.
Current Donation Progress
The donation drive began on April 10, and Jenkins reports they have reached about 25 percent of their ambitious goal to collect 150,000 books. Donations are being accepted at Crossroads Market from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily until the April 22 deadline.
This annual event represents a significant community effort to address the complex challenges faced by women escaping sexual exploitation while providing tangible support through RESET's comprehensive recovery programs.
