The Christmas season is a time of warmth, generosity, and celebration, but for many young women facing a pregnancy crisis or parenting alone, it can be a time of uncertainty and hardship.
For over two decades, Michael House Pregnancy and Parenting Support Services in Guelph has been a pillar of hope for women who are pregnant or newly parenting in situations complicated by domestic abuse, homelessness, drug addiction, and other life challenges. Karen Kamphuis Executive-Director of Michael House says, “We provide resident, transitional housing, and aftercare programs that include counselling, parenting, and life skills. If they find themselves in a place of escaping domestic violence or other life concerns, they will find support for themselves and their child(ren) as they work on goals that will help them live independently in the community.”
But providing these supports would not be possible without the generosity of the community.
Christmas Joy Campaign
The Christmas Joy Campaign, which begins in November is one of the signature fundraising events which transforms the holiday season for residents at Michael House. Kamphuis says, “Thanks to the generous donations from individuals, families, and businesses in Guelph, Michael House is able to provide festive meals, thoughtful gifts, and essential baby supplies while having a meaningful impact on those we support.”
Picture the joy on a child’s face as they unwrap a package filled with toys, or the relief a mother feels as she receives warm winter clothing. With community support, the Christmas Joy Campaign collects donations to ensure that those in need experience a bit of the magic of Christmas.
But its impact is felt well beyond the holiday season. Kamphuis says, “This annual fundraiser is a significant source of support which enables Michael House to offer shelter, resources, and compassionate care to residents year-round. The campaign is the lifeblood of the support programs and a safe place for women to rebuild their lives. The Christmas Joy Campaign helps fund the services and support that provides a lifeline to those overwhelmed by their circumstances.
The Christmas Joy Campaign highlights that there is so much to be Joyful for at Michael House. Residents are safe in a place of peace of calm where they can heal and deal with their trauma and begin to build their future stories.
Over the past 8 years the outpouring of community support for the Christmas Joy Campaign has been overwhelming. There are multiple ways to donate. You can commit to a monthly donation by becoming a Michael House Angel. You can make a one-time donation by cheque, cash or e-transfer at [email protected].
The campaign also incudes a popular online auction of gift baskets and other treats to bid on. The Christmas Joy Auction runs from December 3rd to 11th. Simply visit them online here.
Kristina’s Story
Kristina’s journey with Michael House began halfway through her pregnancy. She says, “My life was in shambles at the time. I was in an abusive relationship and addicted to drugs. I knew I needed to find somewhere safe to go because protecting my son was my top priority.” Sensing that this was her path to a better life, Kristina contacted Michael House and was accepted into their residential program. Kristina says, “I felt supported in a way that I had never felt supported in my entire life. I also learned parenting skills and received necessary items for the baby.”
Kristina eventually moved into transitional housing but because she was struggling with post-partum depression and was still in contact with her son’s father, she lapsed back into drug use. She had to leave the Michael House program when she checked herself into the hospital, Kristina was told she would be welcomed back once she completed the drug treatment program. She says, “Even when I was not officially part of the program, I still felt the love and support of the Michael House family walking alongside me. They checked in on me constantly and was concerned about how I was doing.”
Kristina returned to Michael House the day after graduating from the drug treatment program. “That would have never happened if I did not have the support of the Michael House staff. The most significant thing was they made me feel confident in raising my child. I was encouraged every step of the way, and I knew I was an amazing mother to my little boy. Michael House truly saved my life and my son’s life and I’m eternally grateful.”
Financial support is crucial
The Christmas Joy Brochure gives the community a snapshot of their work. In the past 22 years, Michael House has offered shelter and support to over 500 women and their children. Their average stay in the Residential Program is 9 months. To continue providing shelter and counselling programs Michael House needs donations and contributions of time, talent, and treasures from the community. Kamphuis says, “We focus a lot of mental health for our women because so many are leaving a place of trauma, domestic violence, or leaving addictions behind as they walk out a sobriety journey.” Some of their clients are at risk of being homeless because they don’t have family support around them. Michael House has a transitional housing building that includes 8, 2-bedroom apartments for women who cannot yet live independently. Families can stay in their Supportive Housing Program for up to 2 years.
To fund these initiatives, Michael House has various fundraisers throughout the year. They partner with businesses and community members who support the Strom’s Farm Harvest Hustle 5K Run and the annual Silveri Jewellers Fashion Show, the annual Golf Tournament and more which raise crucial funds to support their mission. Michael House wants to the thank the community for their support through their Baby Bottle Campaign and various drives that collect essential items for their residents.
As part of the Christmas Joy Campaign, they are holding an online Christmas Auction that will run from December 3rd to 11th.
Why give your charitable dollars to Michael House? Karen Kamphuis stresses, “We’re investing into the youth of tomorrow who are building families of their own.” It takes a village to operate an organization like Michael House and given they do not receive government funding; they do depend entirely on community generosity.
Bringing the community together
What’s truly special about the Michael House Christmas Joy Campaign is how it brings the community together. Local businesses, organizations, and individuals all play a part in making this initiative a success. Michael House provides a second chance for young women who need support during one of the vulnerable times of their lives.
Whether it’s a small donation of toys, financial contributions to help purchase meals, or even time spent volunteering, every bit counts. Karen Kamphuis says, “Community support allows our residents to focus on their futures. We can help empower them to take steps toward a brighter tomorrow. Every dollar, every gift, every act of kindness is a reminder that we can a difference in the lives of those who need it most.”
The Christmas Joy Campaign runs through the end of the 2024. To learn more about how you can support the Christmas Joy Campaign visit them online here.