Families came out to support others in the community who require support overcoming abusive situations by attending the Wheatland Crisis Society’s (WCS) annual Under the Big Top Festival Fundraiser on June 15.
Throughout the day, families were encouraged to attend the pop-up market which featured local vendors, local food trucks, pony ride, kids’ zone with face painting, games, and circus-themed entertainment including a hula hoop workshop.
“It was a fun family event for sure,” said WCS annual Under the Big Top Festival Fundraiser Project Manager Jane Mitton.
“In the evening we did a flip, and it changed into an evening cabaret style party,” Mitton said.
The evening cabaret featured circus themed artists, tableside magicians, and live entertainment from Calgary band The Contraband.
Mitton added this was the first year the WCS hosted a family friendly day event, followed by an 18 plus evening cabaret, opposed to hosting a gala with a silent auction in the fall.
“The change of entertainment, and evening cabaret was well-received,” Mitton said.
From the day events, and evening party the WCS raised over $10,000 for residents in the community, which will be used to purchase sheets, blankets, pajamas, slippers, underwear, food, medication, and provide transportation, Mitton said.
Not only does the WCS want to give families an opportunity to create lasting memories together, and support families using the resources provided, but also to create awareness on the services they offer, Mitton said.
“We wanted to create an opportunity for families to share a positive experience, create lasting memories, and bring in some top end performers and entertainment out to Strathmore,” she added.
Throughout the last year, the WCS has assisted 280 people through the residential shelter program. However, 157 adults and 124 children had to be provided with other resources due to space shortages in the shelter, a WCS Press Release said.
“The WCS is committed to a vision of a safe and secure community without abuse,” the Press Release added. “Community support for programs and events has always been and continues to be an essential component in accomplishing the vision, mission, and goals of the WCS.”
Without the support of Eagle Lake Landscaping, the WCS annual Under the Big Top Festival Fundraiser wouldn’t have been possible.
For additional information on the WCS services, please visit the website at
http://strathmoreshelter.com/
