Virtual Gala for Indwell Raises Over $100,000

Friday, 19 June 2020 06:57

The first ever virtual gala hosted by Indwell last week was a huge success, raising just over $100,000.

WOODSTOCK - The first ever virtual gala hosted by Indwell last week was a huge success, raising just over $100,000.

The virtual gala replaced the four annual signature events in Hamilton, Woodstock, Simcoe and London, the live online event engaged more than 1,300 participants by “travelling” to each of those four regions in which Indwell has established their supportive affordable housing programs. Using their phones to pre-record videos, local staff gave attendees a snapshot of their programs, including tenants’ stories and pictures.

In their ambitious quest to end homelessness and inadequate, substandard housing, Indwell continues to develop more homes. The virtual gala format allowed a glimpse into each of these projects as well, with three in Hamilton; and one in Simcoe, London, Port Credit, and Kitchener.

Executive Director Jeff Neven says they currently support 600 people and when these projects are completed, an additional 360 people will have homes.

“While we have more projects in the pre-development phase, we also love working alongside—getting behind—other organizations with a similar vision,” explains Jeff Neven, Executive Director and live host of the gala.

The program included shout-outs from Hamilton Mayor Fred Eisenberger, Simcoe Mayor Kristal Chopp, London Mayor Ed Holder, and Waterloo Region Chair Karen Redman—in addition to remarks from other politicians, local leaders, and celebrities.

Community Engagement Manager Teresa Howe talks about some of the projects Indwell is part of in Woodstock.

"We have been involved in the Blossom Park program since 2004 and we started out with a group home there, quickly added on two wings of independent town house buildings. Then a few years ago, we opened Harvey Woods Loft and then added on a second phase to that fairly quickly, so we have 80 permanent affordable apartments there with housing support staff on site. Last year we completely rebuilt the Blossom Park group home and so there is now 34 independent apartments there with enhanced supports for the tenants."

If you were unable to attend the gala you can view the event at indwell.ca/hope-at-home.