Silent auction gives back

The South Okanagan Women in Need Society is hosting a new event this weekend hoping to raise funds to support local women and children fleeing abuse in the community.

“Inspiring Hope” is a gala that will be presented by the The Penticton Foundry on Nov. 2 at the Penticton Trade and Convention Centre.

“We are so excited for this new event and were astounded when it sold out so quickly,” said Liz Gomes, executive director of SOWINS.

“We are sorry for those who were unable to get their tickets in time, and we want to make sure everyone knows that they can still support SOWINS by participating in our online auction that is live now."

The auction is now best way for those who won't be at the gala to still support the organization's goal of raising $20,000 for much-needed services in the community.

“The event committee did a create job soliciting some amazing items and the best part is, everything was donated, so all proceeds will go to help women and children that need us the most in the South Okanagan,” said Marni Adams, fund development advisor with SOWINS.

The auction boasts items like getaway a vacation package to Ucluelet, winery experiences including Mission Hill and Phantom Creek, spa experiences and products, sports memorabilia, art, tickets to the SOEC, gym and wellness passes, wine and gift certificates to Burrowing Owl Winery, home decor and much more.

“We are using an online auction platform that allows everyone to be a part of the silent auction even if you cannot make the event,” explained Adams. “It is easy, just sign up and start bidding!”

The support makes a huge difference in the community.

“We work with hundreds of women, youth, and children every year that need support with emergency housing, second stage housing, counselling for themselves and their children, support in court through our Community Based Victim Services team or support after surviving a sexual assault to mention a few,” said Gomes.

“The funds raised through the auction and the Inspiring Hope Gala will go directly to our community to support these survivors of domestic abuse and violence."

Find information about the silent auction and place a bid online here.

The South Okanagan Women in Need Society is a registered charity serving women, children, youth, and families facing abuse and violence.

A 24-hour crisis line, emergency sheltering, counselling services for women, youth and children, mobile outreach and community-based victim services programs are a few of the services SOWINS offers to those in need from Summerland to Osoyoos and Princeton.