A number of local businesses have come forward to ensure that the outdoor space at SOWINS’ new Transition House is not only safe and functional for the children and their moms but also calming and beautiful.
“My mom, Wendy volunteered with SOWINS 25 years ago so we both knew we wanted to give back to this organization,” said Chris Berry, owner of SYNLawn Okanagan, who provided the artificial turf for the space. “I grew up in a split family and we were always looking for a place to play, I really value play spaces and playgrounds for kids.”
Berry and his mother arrived to the Transition house together to look at this project and ultimately saved the charity approximately $3,000 in labour, materials and warranty.
Last year, the South Okanagan Women in Need Society (SOWINS) moved into a larger Transition House to serve more women, youth and children fleeing situations of violence to safety and had more than 4,500 bed stays at the house in 2017.
“The new house required a renovation including the yard and garden area,” said the executive director of SOWINS, Debbie Scarborough. “We have been so fortunate that local businesses have stepped up to help by donating time, labour and product to create a space that is calm and comfortable for our residents and most importantly, safe.”
Other businesses that contributed to this project where Sandstone Landscaping and Emerald Irrigation Ltd. providing the charity with approximately another $1,000 savings combined.
To learn more about SOWINS or to donate, contact the office at 250-493-4366 or visit their website at www.sowins.com