The Women's Centre of Halton is celebrating a significant community achievement. Its Light the Path 2025 campaign has successfully exceeded its initial fundraising target of $30,000. The initiative, dedicated to supporting survivors of invisible violence in the Halton region, reached this milestone on December 10, which coincided with International Human Rights Day.
Community Mobilizes Behind a Vital Cause
This campaign's success is largely attributed to a powerful coalition of women-owned businesses and leaders in the Halton area. Spearheaded in collaboration with Nancy Kohli Haté and Associates and Sotheby's International Realty Canada, the effort showcases the impact of female-led community action. The funds raised are directly expanding access to free counselling services for survivors, a critical need often hindered by financial barriers.
Nancy Kohli Haté, a real estate broker and entrepreneur, played a pivotal role in amplifying the campaign's message. Her leadership also enabled the Centre to reopen its store, providing families with dignity of choice during the holiday season. "Her work with the Centre reflects her belief that when women are supported, entire families and communities become stronger," the announcement noted.
Addressing the Crisis of Invisible Violence
The campaign directly tackles the pervasive issue of invisible violence, a form of harm that includes psychological, emotional, and financial abuse. Citing research from the Department of Justice Canada, the Centre highlighted that women who experience such violence are three to five times more likely to develop depression or Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). The high cost of therapy often forces survivors to suffer in silence, making free services essential for recovery.
"Many of us as women in leadership don't need an explanation when we hear the words 'invisible violence' because so many of us have experienced it," said J. Nadia Headley, Executive Director of The Women's Centre of Halton. She also expressed surprise at the number of men who contributed, citing the pain they witnessed their mothers endure. "The mobilisation of our community demonstrates that we are no longer willing to remain silent," Headley stated.
Campaign Continues to Meet Surging Demand
Due to increased demand for services during the holidays, the Light the Path campaign will continue accepting donations until December 31, 2025. The additional funds will help more survivors begin the process of healing and rebuilding their sense of self through professional support.
The Women's Centre of Halton extended its gratitude to several women-led businesses for their compassionate support, including:
- Korrie L. Silver
- Ms. Jai Holness (EMPIRE by Design)
- Angela Rocchi
- Maurisa Boodoo (Maurisa Hair Studio)
- Harleen Kohli (Design Hour)
- Aileen Virola (The Ten Spot)
The Centre also thanked the IODE Angela Bruce Chapter for its continued backing of the Light the Path initiative this year.
