When last year’s ice storm left parts of Simcoe County without electricity, heat, or water for up to two weeks, Green Haven Shelter for Women faced the same harsh reality as many households: no power, no warmth, and no certainty. For women and children escaping violence, that darkness was more than uncomfortable—it was dangerous.
On Thursday, October 16 at 6:15 PM, the community will step out together for Walk This Way, a 3 km charity walk hosted by Green Haven Shelter for Women in partnership with Royal LePage Quest and the Royal LePage Shelter Foundation. Starting at the Orillia Public Library and ending with refreshments at Eclectic Café, participants will raise awareness and critical funds toward one clear goal: $30,000 to purchase a generator for the shelter.
The Need Is Urgent
Last winter’s ice storm showed how fragile safety can be when the lights go out. Orillia and Simcoe County both declared emergencies as entire communities were left without hydro, heat, fuel, or running water—some for days, others for weeks. Research shows that violence in the home increases during disasters and prolonged blackouts, when stress, isolation, and service disruptions converge. Women and children are especially at risk during these times.
“During the outage, our staff did everything possible to support survivors, but without power our ability to provide warmth, food, and safety was severely limited,” said Kyla Epstein, Chair, Board of Directors “A generator means that no matter what happens—a storm, a flood, or another blackout—our doors will stay open and survivors will always have a safe place to turn.”
Why Walk This Way Matters
Funds raised through Walk This Way will ensure Green Haven can prevent another crisis from becoming catastrophic. With a generator, the shelter can keep food secure, maintain a warm and safe environment, and stay connected when women and children need them most.
“Your support truly matters,” said Epstein. “By walking with us, sponsoring the event, or making a donation, you are helping us transform last year’s hardship into lasting preparedness. Together, we can make sure no woman or child ever finds themselves in a shelter without power again.”
Event Details
- Date & Time: Thursday, October 16, 2025. Registration opens at 6:15 PM; walk begins at 7:00 PM.
- Location: Start at Orillia Public Library, finish at Eclectic Café.
- Distance: 3 km.
- Goal: Raise $30,000 to purchase a generator for Green Haven Shelter for Women.
Join the Walk
Residents of Orillia and surrounding communities are encouraged to register, walk, and donate in support of Green Haven’s mission at walkthiswayorillia.ca. Together, we can create a safer, more resilient future for women and children.
Sponsorship Opportunities & Community Support
Green Haven is grateful to its confirmed sponsors:
-
- Gold Sponsor: Csumrik & Associates
- Silver Sponsor: Tiffany’s Hair & Co.
- Bronze Sponsor: Rostance Electrical
Orillia Chevrolet has generously donated $10,000 to this year’s Walk This Way. Their leadership donation demonstrates a deep commitment and allyship to ensuring safety, stability, and hope for women and children in our community. With their support, we are one step closer to reaching our goal of purchasing a generator and safeguarding essential shelter services during future emergencies.
The shelter is still seeking additional sponsorships and donations. Businesses, organizations, and individuals are invited to partner in this impactful initiative.
