HAMILTON, ONTARIO, June 8, 2020 – This Friday across Ontario, more than 1,000 people are expected to attend Hope@Home, Indwell’s first virtual gala. Typically, the affordable housing charity hosts regional banquets to celebrate the year’s programs, hear from tenants, and share updates on new construction and projects. When faced with the prospect of cancelling three scheduled events in Simcoe, Hamilton, and London this spring, the organization quickly pivoted to an online alternative.
A combination of live-streamed hosting by Indwell’s Executive Director and Board Chair, along with videos from each of their programs across Ontario, will make for a lively event. Shout-outs from local leaders, celebrities, and politicians will round out the evening.
“We’re encouraged by such a positive response,” says Jeff Neven, Indwell’s Executive Director. “We’re looking forward to sharing our story in a unique way that invites new people to our community. People are eager to be a part of solutions.”
While more than 1,000 people have already registered for this free event, with no capacity limit the organization expects that number could double by week’s end. Early registrants received an event package that includes drink and dessert recipes from Indwell staff and volunteers, a cling with the Indwell logo to attach to their glass, and a wildflower coaster that can be planted in the garden after the event.
Registrants come from throughout the province, especially the communities where Indwell operates or is building new communities: Hamilton, Woodstock, Simcoe, London, Port Credit (Mississauga), and Waterloo Region.
“We’re creating a joyful event. People can dress up and share photos online or come in their pajamas. It’s an event for everyone. We know that among our attendees will be both people who have homes with Indwell as well as some of the 2,600 people who have contacted our office and are waiting for our affordable supportive housing,” says Neven.
With a goal of raising $50,000 over the 90-minute event, Hope@Home will support Indwell’s current programs as well as growth into new communities. Indwell serves more than 600 tenants with an additional 400 units in development in six Ontario cities.
“People are hungry for stories of hope and are searching for real solutions to homelessness and the lack of affordable housing in our communities,” says Neven. “The pandemic has laid bare the inequalities that exist. How can you ‘stay home’ if you don’t have a home? We’re excited to celebrate with the community how Indwell tenants have a safe and secure place to call home during these challenging times.”
Hope@Home Virtual Gala
June 12, 7:30-9:00pm
Join the live stream at indwell.ca
Indwell is a Christian charity that responds to the urgent need to address homelessness in Southern Ontario by providing high-quality, affordable supportive housing. Indwell supports more than 600 tenants in Hamilton, Woodstock, Norfolk County and London, and is expanding into Waterloo Region and Mississauga. Indwell empowers tenants to achieve health goals and active participation in the life of their communities. To learn more, visit indwell.ca.
