News

On December 17, we were honoured to welcome Maria Jácome, Gloria Ramirez de Chicas, and Christelle Dioquino, who delivered an incredible collection of donated items and grocery gift cards from the Langley office team of WSP Engineering to Ishtar Women’s Resource Society.

Thanks to this generous support, women and children in our community will receive essential household items, including toiletries, towels, plates, kitchen supplies, cleaning products, and much more – items that help transform a new space into a safe and comfortable home. In addition, $740 in grocery gift cards was raised, offering families the flexibility and dignity to choose food that meets their needs as they begin again in a safe environment.

The women and children supported through these donations are often fleeing domestic violence. Acts of generosity like this go far beyond the items themselves—they represent hope, dignity, and the reassurance that they are not alone during a time of profound transition.

This meaningful initiative was led by the Women of WSP (WoW) in recognition of the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women. At Ishtar, we are in the process of opening 33 new homes for women and children escaping gender-based violence. Community contributions like these ensure that each home is not just safe, but welcoming and equipped with basic necessities from the very beginning.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to the Langley Team for their compassion, leadership, and commitment to making a difference. When communities come together with purpose and care, real and lasting change is possible.

Juan, our HR Generalist, pictured here with Brent from Royal LePage Wolstencroft.

Juan, our HR Generalist, pictured here with Viet and Helen from Stonehaus Realty.

A heartfelt thank-you goes out to everyone who participated in this year’s REALTORS Care Blanket Drive, organized by the Fraser Valley Real Estate Board (FVREB).

Thanks to the generosity of Royal LePage Wolstencroft and Stonehaus Realty, we received many bags of blankets and other warm items. Many of these donations will go directly to women and families moving into our New Roots Second-Stage Housing facility, helping them feel comforted, safe, and supported as they begin a new chapter in their lives.

The dedication and compassion shown by both realtor companies – and the FVREB’s leadership in coordinating the campaign – truly demonstrate the power of community coming together to make a difference. Every blanket and every donation helps bring warmth and care to those who need it most, and we are deeply grateful for everyone who contributed.

On November 19th, Andi from Club Pilates Willowbrooks stopped by with a generous assortment of gifts collected by their studio community. We are truly honored to be the recipients of these donations on behalf of our clients, and our hearts are full of gratitude for the kindness shown by their members.

The donations included a wide range of thoughtful items—hygiene, hair care, and skin products; bags; baby blankets; diapers; clothing; mugs; shoes; and non-perishable food items. And of course, Andi also brought a highly prized selection of gift cards, which will allow our clients to purchase specific items they need most. Many of these contributions will be included in the welcome kits we are preparing for women and families entering New Roots Second-Stage Housing units in the new year.

These welcome packages help create a sense of comfort, dignity, and care as clients take their next steps toward stability and independence.

We extend our sincerest thanks to the entire Club Pilates Willowbrooks community for their compassion, generosity, and commitment to supporting others. Their efforts remind us of the powerful impact that collective goodwill can have on our community.

On November 7th, we were delighted to welcome Courtney Hutton from CEFA Campbell Heights, who stopped by with an extraordinary delivery of gifts collected through CEFA Campbell Heights’ and CEFA Morgan Crossing’s Socktober initiative. We are honoured to have been chosen as this year’s recipient, and our hearts are full of gratitude for the generosity shown by their students, families, and staff.

The donation included a wide range of thoughtful items—skincare and hygiene products for women and children, baby clothing, women’s clothing, and of course, plenty of cozy socks. These contributions will make a meaningful difference in the lives of the individuals and families we serve.

The items will be shared across several of our programs, with many finding a home in our transition houses, where they will directly support clients during times of change and vulnerability. Some of the gifts will also be included in the welcome packages we are preparing for clients who will be moving into our new second-stage housing facility, set to open in mid-January 2026. These packages help create a sense of comfort, dignity, and care as clients take steps toward stability and independence.

We extend our sincerest thanks to the school community for their kindness, compassion, and commitment to helping others. Their efforts remind us of the powerful impact that collective goodwill can have on our community.

On October 16th, we were honoured to welcome Natasha Fisher, a dedicated volunteer with the Canadian Royal Purple (CRP) Society, who visited us as part of Purple Thursday x7. She arrived with an incredible donation of 25 care packages, each thoughtfully filled with essential items such as hygiene products, toys, books, calendars, basic necessities, a diaper bag, diapers, baby clothing, and even a few puzzles. These packages will bring comfort and practical support to the individuals and families we serve.

In addition to the care packages, Natasha provided valuable informational materials to help us raise awareness about a critical issue: the intersection of intimate partner violence (IPV) and brain injuries. This aligns with CRP’s national campaign, which ran from October 13th to 19th, focusing on the often-overlooked brain injuries that can result from IPV. Their efforts aim not only to educate communities but also to highlight the widespread and long-lasting impacts of violence on survivors’ health and well-being.

We are deeply grateful to Natasha and the Canadian Royal Purple Society for their generosity, dedication, and ongoing advocacy. Their commitment to raising awareness and supporting survivors makes a meaningful difference in communities across Canada—and in ours.

On August 26th, we had the pleasure of welcoming Alla Osipova, Beauty Boutique Manager at Shoppers Drug Mart Thunderbird Village, and one of her team, who generously visited us with thoughtful in-kind donations. Their visit came just before launching their Beauty Mingle Fundraiser, part of the 2025 Shoppers Foundation for Women’s Health initiative.

This national campaign supports organizations across Canada that are helping women and children escape domestic violence — and we are honoured to be among them.

We’re incredibly grateful to Alla and her team not only for the donated items but for their heartfelt commitment to uplifting women in our community. Their support helps us continue our work with survivors as they rebuild their lives with safety, dignity, and hope.

Thank you, Shoppers Drug Mart Thunderbird Village, for standing with us and showing that community care truly is a beautiful thing.

We’re thrilled to announce that Ishtar House has officially moved into a brand-new, purpose-built home—thanks to the generous support of BC Housing. This new space increases our capacity from 10 to 14 beds, allowing us to support more women and children in need of safe, supportive shelter.

The new home features improved amenities designed with comfort, safety, and healing in mind. Before welcoming clients into the space this month (June, 2025), staff from across Ishtar programs gathered for a special housewarming and ribbon-cutting celebration.

This event was more than just a tour—it was a chance for colleagues to reconnect, forge new connections, and reflect on the collective impact of our work. Seeing the house filled with warmth, laughter, and shared purpose was a beautiful reminder of the community that makes Ishtar House what it is.

We’re excited for the next chapter in this new space—and the lives it will help transform.

Smiles all around! Catherine Peare, Ishtar’s Community Relations Assistant, pictured here on the right with Chris Arnot, the amazing store manager at Reitmans in Langley, whose generosity helps empower the women we serve—one outfit at a time. 💖👗 #CommunitySupport #Gratitude

At Ishtar Women’s Resource Society, we are continually inspired by the generosity and heart of our local community. One shining example of this is Store Manager Chris Arnot and the amazing team at Reitmans Langley, a local women’s clothing store that has quietly made a big impact on the women we serve.

Throughout the year—typically four times annually—Reitmans Langley donates select clothing items to our organization. These items may have been tried on or lightly marked during the fitting process, making them no longer suitable for sale.

These donations offer a wonderful variety of stylish, everyday pieces. For the women in our programs, they are a thoughtful and practical gift—helping them feel confident as they take meaningful steps forward in their lives.

Chris, thank you for your continued partnership and generosity. Your team’s kindness helps our mission come to life, one outfit—and one empowered woman—at a time.

With deep appreciation,

Ishtar Women’s Resource Society

A meaningful moment of partnership: Gary Menendez from Jeremy’s Memorial Foundation and Julia (Boyle) Davidson, our Executive Director, mark another season of impactful giving.

We are deeply grateful to Jeremy’s Memorial Foundation for their continued generosity. Once again, they have donated summer pajamas – an essential and warmly welcomed gift for the women and children in our Houses. These pajamas offer more than just physical comfort; they bring a sense of dignity, care, and community during times of profound transition.

Jeremy’s Memorial Foundation Against Domestic Violence was established in 2001 by Jeremy’s family, in loving memory of 3½-year-old Jeremy, who tragically lost his life to domestic violence in 1994. The foundation was created to support organizations working to end domestic violence and to raise awareness about this urgent issue.

Since 2010, the foundation has led a meaningful campaign, collecting and distributing pajamas for women and children twice a year – once in the winter and again in the summer. Each August, they also generously donate backpacks and school supplies to Ishtar, helping children prepare for the new school year with confidence and joy.

To learn more about Jeremy’s Memorial Foundation and how you can support their mission, please visit jeremysmemorialfoundation.com.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to this compassionate organization for their ongoing kindness and steadfast commitment to supporting families as they begin to rebuild their lives free from violence.

Our Executive Director, Julia (Boyle) Davidson, with three inspiring SFU PDP students who are fundraising in support of women and children at Ishtar – thank you for your generosity and heart!

On Monday, May 30th, we had the pleasure of welcoming three compassionate and driven students from Simon Fraser University’s Faculty of Education: Raveen Dhaliwal, Sanamdeep (Sandie) Kaur Sohota, and Patricia (Trish) Tulloch. As part of their Professional Development Program (PDP), these aspiring educators reached out to us with a heartfelt wish – to support women and children in our programs through a special fundraising initiative.

With remarkable energy and dedication, they secured donations from local vendors and assembled fifteen thoughtful care packages for women, with plans to include packages for children as well. Every item collected reflects their commitment to uplifting and supporting survivors in our community.

We’re incredibly grateful for the time, care, and generosity these students have poured into this project. Their efforts are a beautiful reminder of the power of youth-led community action – and the kind of future educators our world needs.

We were recently honoured to welcome a remarkable group of women from Living Waters Church, who arrived with not only an abundance of thoughtful donations but also an outpouring of love and solidarity for those we serve. Their visit was a beautiful reminder of how compassion, when paired with intentional action, can create real and lasting change.

Before launching their donation drive, the group took time to engage in conversation with our Community Relations Assistant to better understand the specific needs within our organization. After learning that we already receive a strong flow of women’s clothing, they chose to focus their efforts on a more urgent need: clothing for children and youth.

Thanks to their thoughtfulness and care, we received an array of gently used and new items – kids’ clothing such as t-shirts, shorts, pants, dresses, socks, shoes, and more – all perfectly suited to help kids feel confident and cared for. Their donation didn’t just fill our shelves – it filled a need in our community that is often overlooked.

In addition to the clothing, a couple of sets of bedding and a few items for women, the team also generously provided six $50 Amazon e-gift cards and a $375 assortment of other gift cards to help clients meet other essential needs. Altogether, the value of their donations is estimated at over $2,063 – a truly incredible contribution.

Here’s a portion of the message we shared with them in a recent thank-you email:

“Thank you for all your most wonderful and fabulous array of donations, and for most recently the added six $50 Amazon gift cards. Your gifts will contribute to creating a meaningful impact in the lives of many, providing not only essential items but also a sense of hope and compassion. Your generosity and willingness to support those in need are truly inspiring.”

We’ve included a photo from the day of their visit below – each one a snapshot of the kindness and community spirit that filled the room.

Sharing smiles and stories—our staff enjoyed a warm moment of connection with these generous visitors

To the kind folks at Living Waters Church, thank you for your partnership, your vision, and your unwavering kindness. Your generosity reminds us that behind every donation is a heart willing to serve – and that is the greatest gift of all.

Seven of our staff and board members along with an Ishtar client, joined also by a friend of Ishtar’s.

Rena Andonek (center) being presented with her award by Sydney Morfitt (left) and Linda Mross (right).

We were honoured to be part of a powerful and inspiring International Women’s Day Luncheon hosted by four of our local Rotary Clubs. The event on March 8th brought together community members and leaders to celebrate the achievements of women and to raise funds for the PEACE Counselling for Children & Youth Program.

Seven of our staff and board members, along with three of our clients, attended the luncheon, proudly representing our organization. It was a meaningful opportunity to connect, reflect, and be part of something bigger.

A special highlight of the day was the recognition of our PEACE Program Coordinator, Rena Andronek, who was nominated to receive a Women of Distinction Award. Her dedication and passion exemplify the heart of our mission, and we were thrilled to see her celebrated in such a public way.

Here is an excerpt from the Luncheon Program:

For over 31 years, Rena Andronek has been a dedicated advocate for women and children affected by violence through her work with Ishtar Women’s Resource Society. As coordinator of the PEACE Program, she has supported over 1,500 families, pioneered school-based violence prevention education, and developed innovative initiatives like Ishtar’s Horse Camp to provide healing through therapy. Her leadership, activism, and unwavering commitment to safety and support have made a profound impact on the Langley community.

Thanks to the generosity and efforts of the Rotary, funds raised from the International Women’s Day event were directed the work of our PEACE Program Counsellors. On April 23, Rena, accompanied by our Community Relations Assistant, Catherine Peare, attended a Rotary Club lunch meeting where they were officially presented with the donation cheque. This gift will go a long way in helping us continue to support and empower those we serve.

We’re deeply grateful to the Rotary Club for their ongoing support and for creating spaces that uplift, empower, and connect people across our community.

The presentation of a $7,000 cheque by Langley Central Rotary District 5050.

Rena addressing the group, explaining the work of PEACE Counselling for Children & Youth and how the funds raised will be used toward the upcoming activities planned for this year.

At Ishtar Women’s Resource Society, we’re always amazed by the generosity of local businesses that step forward to support women in need. One such partner is Rack Fashions, a mobile fashion boutique with a heart for giving back.

On April 16th, we received eight boxes of beautiful women’s clothing from Rack Fashions, offering a wide range of sizes from XS to XXXL – ensuring that women of all body types can find something that makes them feel confident and cared for. From stylish essentials to unique boutique pieces, these donations bring dignity and joy to the women we serve. With a value of $9,594.25, this donation reflects not just generosity, but a deep commitment to helping women feel seen, supported, and stylish.

The boutique, which specializes in fashion for women over 40, has been a consistent and valued supporter of our mission. Every few months, we receive another wave of generous donations, thanks to the kindness and commitment of Cheryl Anderson, who has made it a personal mission to help women thrive beyond the closet.

We were delighted to welcome Cheryl again and captured a special moment between her and our Executive Director – a snapshot of partnership and shared purpose.

Cheryl Anderson of Rack Fashions pictured with Ishtar’s Executive Director, Julia (Boyle) Davidson, celebrating the arrival of eight boxes of donated women’s clothing.”

To Cheryl and the entire team behind Rack Fashions: thank you for your ongoing support and generosity. Your contributions are more than clothing – they are confidence, choice, and a tangible expression of care.

Representing Langley Quilters Guild, Jack, pictured here with Rena, kindly dropped of some needed quilts.

At Ishtar Woman’s Resource Society, we believe in the power of community, and today we were reminded just how beautiful that connection can be.

Recently, we found ourselves in need of a special gift for a child in our PEACE counselling program. We were hoping for a pretty pink quilt that could bring comfort and warmth to a young heart. Without hesitation, we reached out to our local Quilters Guild, knowing we have their avid support.

We called Kathy, our main guild’s member contact, and shared our request. “We need a special quilt for a young girl, and it has to be pink!” Kathy was delighted to hear from us and eager to help. Unfortunately, she wasn’t able to drop by herself, but her wonderful husband, Jack, didn’t miss a beat. He happily took on the task and delivered not one, not two, but 13 lovely quilted blankets to our office!

Each quilt is a beautiful work of art, stitched with care and full of love. We’re so grateful for Kathy, Jack, and the entire Quilters Guild for their generosity and support. Thanks to their kindness, we can bring comfort to not only one child but many, spreading warmth and love throughout our community.

A huge thank you to Kathy, Jack, and everyone involved for making a difference in the lives of those we serve. We’re so grateful for this amazing act of kindness and the beautiful quilts that will help make our clients feel cherished and cared for.

This is just one more example of how, together, we can create a stronger, more compassionate community.

Ishtar’s Executive Director Julia (Boyle) Davidson met Augustino Duminuco of the Infinite Expansion Foundation at Ishtar’s main office.

For the past five years, we’ve been honored to partner with the Infinite Expansion Foundation in their Annual Christmas Toy Drive, bringing joy to the children and youth in the care of our nonprofit society during the holiday season and beyond. As the Foundation celebrates its 10th Annual Christmas Toy Drive, we’re excited to continue this meaningful partnership for a sixth year, ensuring even more young lives are touched by the warmth and joy they truly deserve.

We were also delighted to welcome Augustino Duminuco of the Infinite Expansion Foundation for a visit, where he had the opportunity to meet Ishtar’s new Executive Director, Julia (Boyle) Davidson. Augustino was eager to introduce himself and his incredible organization, strengthening the bond between our teams.

A heartfelt thank you to all of YOU—Together, we’re making a difference—one child, one toy, and one act of kindness at a time.

YPI students from Aldergrove Secondary School operating their bake sale outside of IGA Murrayville Square.

A vibrant sign displayed on the students’ bake sale table, adorned with an array of beautifully decorated baked treats.

Shia and Melania with the funds they raised.

Shia and Melania pictured at Ishtar with Program Manager Roshine Morrison.

We extend a heartfelt thanks to Aldergrove Secondary School YPI fundraising students Melania and Shia for their time, energy, and dedication put into organizing and running a bake sale on January 12th to support and raise awareness for Ishtar Women’s Resource Society. It’s this kind of hard work and enthusiasm that makes a significant impact in our community, and we are incredibly grateful for these kinds of efforts.

Thanks to the generosity and commitment of these students and others, we can continue providing essential support to women and children in need. This initiative not only raised funds to the tune of $737.05 but also raised awareness about our mission, which is invaluable.

We truly appreciate the spirit of community these thoughtful students have shown and are inspired by their compassion. On behalf of everyone here at Ishtar, thank you Melania and Shia for making a difference and for helping to create a brighter future for so many families.

Two of our TLFCS heroes with Ishtar’s new ED Julia (Boyle) Davidson, PEACE Program Coordinator Rena Andronek, and Programs Manager Roshine Morrison.

Two local firefighters, representing the Township of Langley Professional Firefighters Local 4550 and Brookswood Fire Hall, joined us at our office to present a generous cheque donation of $800. The donation is a portion of funds raised during last month’s Candy Cane Run, an event that brought the community together in support of a great community causes. We are incredibly grateful to all the firefighters involved and to everyone who gave their support, making this donation possible. Their kindness and dedication to helping others truly embody the spirit of the season. Thank you to all involved!

Many thanks to all who donated to the Shoppers Foundation for Women’s Health initiative to help women and their children escape domestic violence. Your generosity helped raise MORE THAN $13,000!

Our gratitude also go to these local Shoppers Drug Mart stores who chose to support us for this campaign:

• Murrayville Square: 22196 50th Ave
• Langley Crossing: 6339 200th St
• Brookswood Mall: 4030 200th St
• 208th and 80th Ave: 20678 Willoughby Town Centre Dr
• Thunderbird Village: 20159 88th Ave
• Aldergrove Village: 26310 Fraser Highway

https://shoppersfoundation.ca

Maninder (Manny) Johal, Associate Owner of Brookswood Shoppers, visited Ishtar’s Administrative Office on November 14th, 2024, for a photo op with Rena Andronek, PEACE Children’s & Youth Counselling Coordinator.

Ishtar Community Relations Assistant, Catherine Peare, and Libra House Coordinator, Shaya McKee, met on November 21, 2024, with the Aldergrove store owner Ayaz Karmali, Shoppers Regional Office Management, and members of Aldergrove store staff for a cheque presentation showing what their store had raised for Ishtar.

Two members of the Shoppers Murrayville Square team visited Ishtar’s administrative office on November 22nd, 2024. Seen here posing with Shaya McKee, Coordinator of the Libra Transition House

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Standing beside a huge collection of toys received in gratitude are Rena Andronek of Ishtar’s PEACE Children & Youth Counselling Program and Augustino Duminuco of the Infinite Expansion Foundation.

For the fifth consecutive year, the Infinite Expansion Foundation has proudly supported Ishtar through its annual toy drive. Aligned with Ishtar’s Mission, the Infinite Expansion Foundation believes that no woman or child should ever feel unsafe in this world, and are committed to making a difference by giving back to those in our community, offering a reminder that they are not alone—especially during a time of year that can be challenging for some. A heartfelt thank you to Augustino Duminuco, the Infinite Expansion Foundation and all the generous donors who contributed. Your kindness and generosity are what make our mission possible.

Devan Hoisington and Ashley Hendricks of Scentsy with Scentsy Buddies they donated to Ishtar.

We want to extend a big thank you to two amazing Scentsy representatives who recently visited us with a generous donation of Scentsy Buddies for our clients. These adorable, scented plush toys are sure to bring comfort and joy to those who receive them. Their thoughtful donation is a wonderful reminder of the kindness and compassion that exists within our community. We are deeply grateful for their generosity and for choosing to support our mission in such a meaningful way.