Quick Escape 
YWCA Hamilton’s Response to COVID-19
Dear Friends,
As we keep saying, this has been an unprecedented week. And every day brings with it new and unexpected challenges and transitions in the face of the COVID-19 virus.
At YWCA Hamilton, we are committed to bringing exceptional service and care to our clients and residents, which means our team continues to work tirelessly around the clock to ensure the well-being of the most vulnerable populations in our community. We stand in solidarity with the front-line workers across this city – including our own – who keep all essential services running, providing shelter, food, compassion and so much more.
As I scroll through social media and read news stories about neighbours supporting neighbours in Hamilton during this time of crisis, I am reminded yet again of this amazing community in which we live, how in the face of uncertainty we pull together instead of apart. At YWCA Hamilton, our passionate and dedicated team seeks innovative ways to encourage connectedness, reduce isolation and keep the community active and engaged.
Because we know that for some, working from home and being out of school is not always ideal or safe. For some, social distancing and self-isolation can be exceptionally stressful and anxiety-inducing. But we are here for all and encourage you to reach out for support, to connect, or just to share a story or photo.
So many of you have reached out asking how you can help during this challenging time – please consider making a donation to ensure we can respond to the increased needs of women and families accessing our essential services.
These women and families need us now more than ever.
We are also working to provide critical supplies for residents of our Transitional Living Program and women accessing our overnight emergency out of the cold shelter at Carole Anne’s Place.
We have implemented a safe process for accepting donations. Donations can be dropped off at YWCA Hamilton’s main entrance at 75 MacNab Street South between 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. Upon arrival, we ask that you use the call box to notify staff as all of our doors are locked. When a staff member answers the call box, you may share your name and purpose for visit (donation drop off). Staff will buzz you in and if the drop off is of significant volume, you may be asked to drop it off at the loading dock or alternative location in the building.
We are looking for the following critical supplies:
- Clorox wipes
- Canned goods
- Pasta and pasta sauces
- Peanut butter
- Dry shampoo
- Body wipes
- Prepackaged snacks and food items
- Examples: granola bars, fruit cups, cheese sticks
- Fruit
- Ready to eat meals
- Microwavable meals. Instant noodles
- Bottled water
- Hand sanitizer
- Dish soap
- Bar soap
On behalf of the entire team at YWCA Hamilton and those we serve, thank you for supporting those most marginalized in our community. When we come together in these difficult times, we can make a real difference in the lives of women, children and families.
Stay safe and healthy,
Denise Christopherson