Cause We Care Foundation to help build housing for single mothers

For a single mother, finding safe, affordable housing is the first step in creating a better future for her family. However, that first step is not an easy one.

According to  the CMHC Fall 2011 Rental Market Report, the vacancy rate in Metro Vancouver was 1.490 and the average rent for a two-bedroom apartment was $1237. According to 2005 statistics, over one third (35%) of households led by single mothers fell under the poverty line.

The YWCA currently has five housing communities supporting single mothers with two additional communities under construction—one in Coquitlam and another in Surrey. But that is still not enough. Waitlists for safe affordable YWCA housing can be up to two years.

That’s where the Cause We Care Foundation comes in. In April 2007, Andrea Thomas Hill founded Cause We Care, an organization committed to improving the quality of life for women and children in the community. “What better way to help than by funding the development of a new housing community?” says Andrea. “Allowing women to get back on their feet, further their education, find meaningful employment and create a happier 'community' for their children.”

Interested in supporting theYWCA Cause We Care House? There are many ways you can help:

• A financial contribution to support women with bus tickets, emergency food vouchers and more. Click here to donate
• To make a donation of new or gently used clothing and household goods contact sross@ywcavan.org
• For more information on supporting the YWCA Cause We Care House capital campaign, contact klilyholm@ywcavan.org