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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.

Kathy Robinson of the Langley Quilters Guild with Ishtar’s Rena Andronek, showing off the latest of amazing donated quilts.

We are incredibly grateful to the Langley Quilters Guild for their ongoing generosity and support. Recently, Kathy Robinson visited us with a beautiful donation of 8 quilted blankets, continuing their tradition of gifting stunning quilts to our clients. These quilts are more than just handcrafted pieces—they are symbols of warmth, care, and community. The Quilters Guild’s thoughtful contributions brighten the lives of those we serve, and we are deeply thankful for their kindness. Their dedication to giving back through these beautiful gifts truly makes a difference.

Ishtar Programs Manager, Roshine Morrison, with Zita Lambert of the PSAC Women’s Committee.

Ishtar Women’s Resource Society would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the PSAC Women’s Committee for their generous in-kind donation. Support through donations of women’s necessities help assist in furthering the organization’s work. Ishtar is grateful for their kindness and looks forward to continued partnership in the future.

Rena Andronek, PEACE Children & Youth Counselling Program Coordinator and Catherine Peare, Community Relations Assistant, being presented with a $2,000 donation cheque by members of the Township of Langley Firefighters Local 4550 Charity group presented a $1,000 donation cheque. Fire Chief Jason de Roy was behind the camera taking the picture.

In a heartwarming display of community spirit, the Township of Langley Firefighters Local 4550 Charity group presented a cheque to Ishtar Women’s Resource Society. The donation will directly support the organization’s ongoing initiatives and efforts to make a positive impact in the community. The cheque presentation, attended by both firefighters and members of Ishtar, was a moment of solidarity and collaboration. The donation is a testament to the firefighters’ dedication to their community beyond their heroic duties. Ishtar is immensely grateful for the generosity and support, and the funds will help continue Ishtar’s mission.

Cory Redekop (left), CEO of the Greater Langley Chamber of Commerce, with Laurie Shopland (right) of Shopland Coaching, and Rena Andronek (middle) of the PEACE Children & Youth Counselling Program, Ishtar Women’s Resource Society.

This holiday season, we were truly touched when two members of our the Greater Langley Chamber of Commerce, Cory Redekop, CEO of the Greater Langley Chamber of Commerce, and Laurie Shopland of Shopland Coaching, visited our administrative office bearing gifts. These in-kind Christmas gifts for women and children, along with gift cards that can be used by our clients to purchase the things they need, are very much appreciated and will bring much-needed joy and support to our clients.

We are incredibly grateful for the generosity of the Chamber members, whose kindness will have a meaningful impact on those we serve. It’s through acts of goodwill like this that we continue to strengthen our community, and we are thankful to be a part of such a caring network.

Wishing everyone a joyful and festive holiday season!

Bonnie Hunter (left) with Lois Walton (right) and their donations.

We were blessed to receive a heartwarming visit from Bonnie Hunter along with one of “Bonnie’s Helping Angels”, Lois Walton. “Bonnie’s Helping Angels” generously donated 57 care packages to our nonprofit. During the past year, Bonnie knitted each toque included, and her kind associates took the time to gather items and assemble the packages with love and care, bringing smiles and comfort to those we serve. We are incredibly grateful for their kindness and support in making a positive impact in our community. Thank you, “Angels,” for spreading joy and hope!

Catherine on the left with Shereece Hayes of Coast Capital Savings – Headquarters Branch.

We are incredibly grateful to Coast Capital Savings – Headquarters Branch for their heartfelt support through their staff toy drive, which provided a wonderful collection of toys to our nonprofit. This generous donation includes a variety of items, a few of which are perfect for youth, ensuring that older children and teenagers will also experience the joy of receiving a special gift this holiday season. On behalf of everyone at Ishtar Women’s Resource Society, thank you again, Coast Capital, for your generosity. We look forward to continuing to work together to make our community a better place for all!

Sonia Pushpanathan of Cuppycake Confections.

We are delighted to receive a sweet and thoughtful donation of Christmas cupcakes for our transition house residents. Generously provided by Cuppycake Confections (@cuppycake_confections), these festive treats added a special touch to our residents’ holiday celebrations. The dozen cupcakes, beautifully decorated with holiday cheer, are certain to bring smiles and joy to everyone who receives them. At Ishtar, we strive to create a warm, welcoming environment for our clients, and gestures like this help foster a sense of community and hope. A big thank you to Sonia Pushpanathan of Cuppycake Confections and all those who contribute to making this time of year a little brighter for our residents!

Pictured with the delivered items is Gary Menendez, Vice President of Jeremy’s Memorial Foundation.

We are incredibly grateful to the Jeremy’s Memorial Foundation for their generous donation of winter pyjamas and toques, which will help keep many individuals in our care warm during the colder months. These items will provide comfort and warmth to women and their children, offering not just physical protection but a sense of care and community. In the spirit of giving, the foundation’s contribution reflects the power of coming together to support those facing tough times. A big thank you to everyone involved for their kindness and commitment to making the winter season a little brighter for others.

Cheryl Anderson of Rack Fashions in the center, with Kim Rogan, left, and Pany Aghili, right, of Ishtar Women’s Resource Society.

We are incredibly thankful to Rack Fashions for their continued generosity in donating beautiful, new women’s clothing. Their periodic contributions ensure that those in need have access to stylish and high-quality garments, boosting confidence and offering a sense of dignity. This ongoing support plays a crucial role in helping individuals feel valued and empowered. A heartfelt thank you to Cheryl Anderson and Rack Fashions for their dedication to making a positive impact in our community. We are proud to partner with such a compassionate and generous retailer.

Pictured left is Mikeilla Dionisio of Re/Max Lifestyles Realty – Langley, and on the right is Adrianna Klassen of Re/Max Treeland Realty.

A heartfelt thank you to the amazing teams at Re/Max Lifestyles Langley and Re/Max Treeland Realty for their generous contributions to our community through the Realtors Care Blanket Campaign. Thanks to their efforts, we have received a wonderful assortment of blankets and other warm items that will help keep individuals and families cozy throughout the cold winter months. The kindness and dedication shown by these realty companies demonstrate the power of collaboration and care within our community. Your support will make a meaningful difference in the lives of many, and we are deeply grateful for your continued generosity.

Nathan of Texas Smoke BBQ pictured here with Ishtar’s Community Relations Assistant, Catherine Peare.

We are incredibly grateful to Texas Smoke BBQ for their ongoing generosity in donating delicious barbecued meats to our transition house residents. Their periodic contributions provide a special treat for those in need, bringing both nourishment and joy. Thank you, Nathan and company, for your continued support and for making a meaningful difference with every donation. Your kindness helps us serve others with warmth and care.

Augustino Dominuco of Infinite Expansion Foundation pictured center with PEACE Program Coordinator, Rena Andronek, left, and PEACE Program Counsellor, Megan Comey, right.

Augustino Dominuco stopped by for a visit. We are so excited that the Infinite Expansion Foundation will be supporting Ishtar Women’s Resource Society again this year with their 8th Annual Toy Drive Event. The Infinite Expansion Foundation will be inviting businesses who would like to host a box for drop off and donors – able to issue tax receipts. Please give the Infinite Expansion Foundation a call at 604-446-2444.

We are so grateful for a donation of $6,300 from 100 WOMEN WHO CARE – FRASER VALLEY – Sincere Thanks to all who contributed.