Niagara’s CAA-fleet is more colorful after this morning when two trucks wrapped in the colors of two Niagara organizations roll out on the roads as part of the organization’s annual Community Boost program.
Hospice Niagara and Gillian’s Place also benefited from a double-donation, bringing $20,000 to each organization to use.
“This is a great way for those who needs us to find us,” said Nicole Regehr, Executive director of Gillian’s Place as she studied the decals in the colors of the organization, which helps individuals fleeing gender-based violence.
The phone number, conveniently placed on the doors of the tow-truck, said Regehr, will make for another important avenue for ensuring those who need their help finds it easier.
Regehr said Gillian’s Place has seen a 100-percent increase in crisis calls since the pandemic, and are currently dealing with a full shelter.
“There has been a surge in incidents of gender-based violence, but also more severe incidents. We have seen beatings, strangulations, and, unfortunately, murder,” said Regehr.
“We often talk about those incidents like crimes of passion, but don’t look at what actually led up to that point.”
With things opening up, said Regehr, more cases are being identified as those who have been trapped at home with their abuser over the pandemic are able to seek out more public venues.
“We were expecting an increase. Half of our contacts are referrals from someone who is concerned, so we are very excited to be able to have this visibility.’
The visibility also will go a long way for Hospice Niagara, that saw its logo and colors go up on the second tow-truck.
“It allows people to start a conversation about death and dying as they are standing around and waiting for their car to get towed by the roadside,” said Director of Marketing, Alicia Merry.
With increased pressure brought on by the pandemic, and only partial funding from the Ministry of Health, Merry said the organization’s fundraising requirements have increased from needing to raise $1.8 million annually to $2.5 million to account for things like PPE, food distribution, extra staffing and more.
The hospice currently has 10 beds, but is planning to expand to 30 beds.
“It is going to take a lot of effort, but I know we can do it,” said Merry.
