We all know the importance of home however many of us take it for granted. But for a lot of people – single mothers in particular – finding a safe, affordable place to live and build a life can seem like an insurmountable challenge.
The importance of having a place to call home resonated with Jazmin Sasky, a Vancouver artist who was inspired to partner with the YWCA to put on an art show in support of the YWCA’s new housing initiative, YWCA Cause We Care House. The exhibit, titled “Home is Love”, featured paintings that depict the meaning of “home”.
Jazmin highlights the importance of home
Jazmin created the paintings based on surveys she distributed to women involved with YWCA programs, which asked four questions:
- Define “home”
- Why “home” is important to you
- Your favourite things to do at home
- Share your family values
Based on the participants’ answers, Jazmin created a collection of beautiful, colourful paintings. The paintings demonstrate why it’s important to build a community where everyone has a safe, comfortable space to live.
“We concentrated on the positive aspects of raising a home, rather than looking at the past,” says Jazmin.
Chantelle Krish, Manager of Advocacy and Public Relations for YWCA Metro Vancouver, was excited that Jazmin approached them about her idea for the art show. She hopes it will help draw attention to the great need for safe, affordable housing in Vancouver.
“Right now our participants are struggling financially, and affordable housing is one of the first barriers they face,” says Chantelle. “For single mothers with children in Vancouver, which has one of the highest costs of living in the world, it’s really challenging.”
YWCA helps their community to find a home
We Care House is a joint effort between YWCA Metro Vancouver, Vancouver Public Library and the City of Vancouver. It will be built over the Strathcona branch of Vancouver Public Library on East Hastings Street. There will have 21 units of long-term housing made up of 2, 3 and 4 bedroom apartments.
“[The library] is really special as well, because the Strathcona community has been wanting a library for a long time,” says Chantelle.
Both the new library branch and YWCA Cause We Care House are very welcome additions to the community. Chantelle hopes to see more collaborative projects like this one in the future.
“Vancouver is a beautiful place, and we all deserve to have a safe place to call home.”
How can you help?
To find out more about YWCA Cause We Care House or to make a contribution to help wrap up the capital campaign, please visit the YWCA website or call Natasha Krotez at 604 895 5789.
To view the art from Home is Love please visit Jazmin Sasky’s website.
Classic LifeCare is a regular supporter of YWCA Metro Vancouver, which helps women and children achieve economic independence, wellness and equal opportunities.
