A $1-million gift from the family of Kathy and Richard Sendall is helping YWCA Calgary launch a fund to help women and families in crisis.

YWCA Calgary launched the Stand with Her Fund at the organization’s 115th annual general meeting last month. The fund will support victims of gender-based abuse and domestic violence through collaboration with other organizations. The YWCA will use the money to help women fleeing domestic abuse and poverty.

The family of Kathy and Richard Sendall is confident their gift will address the most immediate community needs. The family trusts YWCA Calgary’s ability to meet women where they are and help them move toward safety and stability, creating a foundation of prosperity for women, their children, and the community.

The funds will be used primarily to address gender-based abuse and domestic violence through collaboration with the Calgary Police Service and other agencies. The fund will also target the root causes of such issues and work toward finding solutions with a broader impact.

The YWCA offers programs and services such as parenting and financial counselling, language education, housing, crisis shelters, and child care. Last year, the YWCA helped 10,600 people.

Source: Bill Kaufmann, Calgary Herald