If you are looking for a tangible way to help those who suffer from homelessness and food insecurity in Sault Ste. Marie, we have the perfect initiative for you.
You can help SOYA build a brighter future for our vulnerable population by supporting work needed at its new homebase in SooToday's Community Build fundraiser.
Generous SooToday readers and local businesses have already contributed towards the purchase of many of the items needed to complete the required renovations on the non-profit's new home, including counters and cupboards a front entrance door, a hot water tank, kitchen sink and faucets, new flooring a stove for preparing meals and more.
The outpouring of support has been so incredible that we have increased our original goal in the hopes that our readers can help purchase every item on the list and get this project completed!
If you would like to help the helpers, join us by contributing towards the renovation and supporting SOYA's move into its new home. The fundraiser ends on Monday, March 3 at 12 p.m.
ORIGINAL STORY:
Food insecurity, mental health challenges and homelessness continue to be pressing issues within our community.
While tackling these significant challenges may seem overwhelming, it's often the small acts of kindness that have a profound impact on those who need support the most.
SOYA assists approximately 500 community members a week who suffer from mental wellness, substance use disorder, homelessness and food insecurity; providing food, clothing, household items, personal hygiene products and resource support.
The non-profit, which relies on community donations in order to help those in need, is in the process of renovating its new home at 179 Gore Street (they have been forced to move because their previous location became uninhabitable).
This new space, when renovated and equipped to meet the volunteer groups’ needs, will be the homebase for the extensive community outreach work the SOYA team of volunteers does in Sault Ste. Marie.
How you can help
SooToday is launching a Community Build, where readers can help to purchase new flooring, kitchen fixtures and supplies, furnishings, a front door and more, to get the new building operational as a homebase for community outreach.
Join us in making a difference today by contributing towards the renovation and helping SOYA move into its new home.
A big thank you to the generous local businesses supporting the Community Build initiative with discounts on the items and materials being purchased by the community, including:
ATS
Best Buy Sault Ste. Marie
DNM Construction, Plumbing & Heating
DT Electrical
Dulux Paints
Ergo Office Plus
GFL Environmental Sault Ste. Marie
John Major Mechanical
Hollow Metal
Russell Hendrix Sault Ste. Marie
Soo Mill
Trimont Construction/Snow Removal
United Floors
And thank you to the Social Services Building Maintenance and Construction Program for their tremendous work on the renovations!