This season, people may find they are able to give from what they have and share with those in need in the community. For this purpose, a local women’s shelter has created a wish list.

Tracy Whitby is the Executive Director of Agape House in Steinbach. She notes their wish list consists of immediate needs within the shelter. “Those are wishes conveyed to us directly from the people at our shelter right now – so when you're donating an item from that list, it's going to be used right away.”

Agape House is a residential shelter for victims who are in domestic and family abuse situations, providing a safe space for people to heal and rebuild their lives. “On top of that,” says Whitby, “We offer counseling, supports, referrals, and advocacy to individuals in our shelter.”

Agape House also operates a 24-hour crisis line, seven days a week (204) 326-0028

“There's always somebody there to answer your call,” says Whitby. “Whether you're in crisis right this minute, or you know somebody where something might be going on and you’re looking to have a conversation with someone to determine the next best steps.”

Agape House Executive Director Tracy WhitbyThe ongoing pandemic, restrictions, and rising food costs have impacted Agape House, notes Whitby.

“We’re doing our best to spread awareness on some of the challenges we're facing as one of the shelters in Manitoba. Monetary donations make a huge difference, especially right now. Those dollars can go specifically to the needs that are arising.”

She adds that Agape House also supports those who may not need to stay in shelter.

“We have a non-residential follow-up program that helps people who may be able to stay with friends, relatives, church supports, and things like that – in our area it happens quite often.”

That’s not the only program offered by Agape House. Whitby says they also have a children's program. “We work with kids, modeling healthy relationships, helping them build resiliency and learn how to have productive conversations.”

November is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, so Agape House has been sharing a lot of information and valuable tools and resources on Facebook and Instagram.

Now leading up to Christmas, Agape House has launched their annual Power of PJ’s campaign.

“Because of the pandemic, we don’t have a drop-off spot this year,” explains Whitby. “So we're collecting dollars earmarked specifically for purchasing pajamas. At the end of the month, we'll purchase a bunch of pajamas for our participants. It makes them feel valued and special – it's something just for them and shows that the community cares about their well-being and success.”