Every year on March 8th, the world comes together to celebrate International Women’s Day — a day dedicated to recognizing the achievements of women, raising awareness about gender equality, and advocating for women’s rights worldwide. As an organization focused on building a brighter future for women and their children facing violence, poverty, and homelessness, International Women’s Day is deeply significant for us. It’s a day when we reaffirm our commitment to standing in solidarity with women, advocating for their rights, and fostering a community where every woman feels safe, valued, and empowered to thrive.
This year at the shelter, we’re celebrating International Women’s Day for the entire week leading up to the big day, with inspiring events aimed at celebrating and uplifting the women and children in our community. From heartfelt notes to powerful stories and motivational talks, each event offers a unique way to honour women’s strength, resilience, and achievements. Here’s a look at what we have planned for this week:
March 3rd: Letters to Mom – A Tribute from the Children
We’re kicking off the week with a special activity in our Children’s Program, where the kids staying at Nellie’s will be encouraged to write letters to their mothers, focusing on the strength and love that they see within them. We hope these letters will be a beautiful way for the children to show appreciation for their moms, and everything that they do for them!
March 4th: “Her Journey, Her Voice” – Stories of Resilience
On Tuesday, we’re thrilled to welcome back some former residents of Nellie’s to share their incredible journeys of transformation with us. They’ll share their personal stories of coming to Canada and living at Nellie’s. They’ll talk about the challenges they faced, and how the support and services they received made a meaningful impact in their lives. It’s sure to be an inspiring event for us all.
March 5th: “Superwomen in Our Lives” – Children’s Tributes to the Women who Inspire Them
On Wednesday, our Children’s Program will focus on having the kids pay tribute to the women who have made a significant impact in their lives, from the mothers and grandmothers, to teachers, mentors, and friends. It’s a wonderful opportunity for the kids staying at Nellie’s to honour the women who have played important roles in their lives so far.
March 6th: Guest speaker – Empowering Women for the Future
On Thursday, we’ll be welcoming a special guest speaker to deliver a motivational session designed to empower the women at Nellie’s and inspire them to embrace their full potential. It’s an opportunity for all participants to feel uplifted, supported, and motivated as they continue their own journeys of growth and success.
March 7th: Documentary on International Women’s Day – Understanding Its Origins
On the night before the march, the women at Nellie’s will gather to watch a powerful documentary that explores the history and origins of International Women’s Day. Through this film, we’ll gain a deeper understanding of the movement’s roots and the global efforts to promote gender equality.
March 8th: International Women’s Day March
To celebrate the big day, we’ll be joining with women from across our city to take part in the International Women’s Day March, a powerful demonstration of solidarity and advocacy for gender equality. The event starts with a rally at 11am at the OISE Auditorium (252 Bloor St W) and the march begins at 1pm. Join us in raising our voices and standing up for women’s rights everywhere!