For some, a purse is an accessory that adds to their outfit. For others, it's an important bag that carries everything they need. Those in women's shelters often don't have the luxury of even having a bag, they usually are just left with the clothes on their back.
6 years ago, Deanne Stewart and her husband Mark Nowakowski started Purse of Hope, a non-profit organization that provides women who are in women's shelters purses filled with essential products. The products and the purses are donated by the community and sorted with the help of Deanne's youth group.
"All the purses come to our youth centre and when we meet on Sundays, we process all the purses."
-Deanne Stewart
Just in their first year in 2016, they received over 1000 donated purses. Now every year during the entire month of November, Purse of Hope accepts donations of new or used purses as well as new feminine products that will be divided equally between the bags. There is a list on their Facebook with verified products that can be accepted in the women's shelters.
"We put a card so they know its from Purse of Hope with a little message of hope on it"
-Deanne Stewart
They have multiple drop-off locations across the Island of Montreal for easier access to donate. From Moda Elle in Pointe-Claire to Dawson College on Sherbrooke street, everyone in Montreal has the ability to donate at one of their drop-off areas.
Get rid of your unused purses and restore some hope for women in need by donating to Purse of Hope.
