Reflecting on 2024: Strength, Resilience, and Hope
The International Women’s Day panel at Arcadia Earth celebrated the stories and resilience of our past and current clients and supporters.
As the year draws to a close, it is a moment for reflection—a chance to look back on what we have accomplished together at Ernestine’s Women’s Shelter and to honor the strength and resilience of the women, children, and individuals we serve.
In 2024, we continued to witness the growing need for our services. Women, individuals and children sought safety, stability, and a place to rebuild their lives in numbers we have not seen before. Each story reminded us of the profound courage it takes to reach out for help and the responsibility we hold as a community to answer that call.
This year, Ernestine’s provided more than just shelter. We offered hope, healing, and a path forward. From trauma-informed counseling to culturally responsive programs, we adapted to meet the needs of a diverse and vibrant community. Despite facing financial challenges and limited resources, our commitment to providing life-saving services never wavered.
“As a society, we must do better. We must collectively work to end gender-based violence and support women, individuals and children who face danger. Their lives and stories fuel our determination to continue this work and to demand change.”
While we celebrate the triumphs of those who found safety and healing, we also pause to remember the women who did not survive. In Canada, a woman or girl is killed every 48 hours, often by an intimate partner. You are never far from our thoughts. As a society, we must do better. We must collectively work to end gender-based violence and support women, individuals and children who face danger. Their lives and stories fuel our determination to continue this work and to demand change.
Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow speaks at the Garden of Hope in October 2024
Our Garden of Hope event in October was a testament to the collective power of community. It was a celebration of resilience and renewal, bringing people together to shine a light on the incredible journeys of the women and children we support. Earlier in the year, our International Women’s Day celebration amplified the voices of survivors and highlighted the critical work we do to create a safer, more equitable future.
The Ernestine’s team enjoying our Summer Brew event at Great Lakes Brewery
As we look toward 2025, we are embarking on a new chapter guided by a refreshed strategic plan. This plan reflects our commitment to innovation and growth, ensuring that Ernestine’s continues to be a place of safety and transformation. It focuses on expanding our outreach, strengthening prevention programs, and creating services that are more accessible, equitable, and culturally relevant.
While the challenges ahead are significant, so too is the inspiration we draw from the individuals we serve. Their strength reminds us of the importance of our work and motivates us to continue striving for a future where everyone can live free from violence and fear.
Thank you for being part of our journey. Together, we are building a stronger, more compassionate community and a future beyond violence.
In Sisterhood,
Sharlene Tygesen
Executive Director, Ernestine’s Women’s Shelter