Photo by Shaun Penner

By Curtis Galbraith

Community

Sunrise House fundraising on Toque Tuesday

Feb 2, 2021 | 6:00 AM

February 2 is not only Groundhog Day, it is also Toque Tuesday.

Grande Prairie’s Sunrise House Youth Emergency Shelter is joining the national effort that sees Raising the Roof and shelters across the country selling toques and other items to raise money.

Sunrise House executive director Tanya Wald says money made here will help support the local shelter’s programs.

“So, we’re looking to people to buy a toque or pair of mitts. We also have masks for sale and if they would like to take a selfie, post it on social media, and let people know that they support these efforts, and support Sunrise House, and Toque Tuesday nationally.”

Twitter and Facebook users can add #ToqueSelfie to their posts while Instagram users can add #Rise2020, #RtRToque, and @raisingtheroof_cheztoit.

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Wald says the shelter has been busy but is doing well.

“Our staff are doing well. Our staff and our kids are healthy and we’re doing our best to make sure that even with some of the restrictions, we’re still able to provide that safe base when anyone needs us.

“Kids can still just show up if they need to show up or give us a call if they need help.”

She adds the pandemic has stalled other efforts to fundraise for a new shelter, but is still hopeful construction will start this spring.

“The pandemic has really amplified our need for a new building. We did have to decrease beds to ensure proper spacing. It’s been difficult in a lot of ways in how we do our programming.

“So, it’s definitely pushed us to get this done quicker, but our board of directors and our capital team are really ready to go.”

Wald says there is curbside pickup available, and delivery is being offered for orders over $100.

Anyone interested can call Sunrise House at 780-539-3287 or email tanya@gpyess.ca

Wald says the toques and other items can be purchased throughout the month of February.