REGINA — Hundreds of people participated in the annual YWCA Regina Walk a Mile in Their Shoes on Thursday.
The event helps raise awareness around domestic violence.
“[This] is really about sharing statistics and stories and having difficult conversations before the walk and then during the walk, really showing support and allyship for women and families who’ve experienced violence,” said YWCA Regina CEO Melissa Coomber-Bendtsen.
Each participant walked around downtown Regina wearing red style shoes, including heels or shoes with red wrapping.
“I think that challenging yourself to do something you might be uncomfortable with can show just a little element of that support,” she said.
Regina resident Bryce Wolaniuk came to the event to show his support as he personally knows others who have experienced gender-based violence.
“I think there is a stigma around people of different colours or sexuality coming out with their issues.”
Wolaniuk believes more information and awareness are needed for gender-based violence.
“We need to ensure people stop feeling ashamed about their past experiences.”
All the money raised from the event will go towards the YWCA Regina’s Isabel Johnson Shelter.
“The shelter is accessed by women and children who are fleeing violence. We have housing supports, case management, healing supports, mental health supports, programs to support children who’ve been exposed to violence, as well as addiction services,” said Coomber-Bendtsen.
As of the interview, Coomber-Bendtsen said the event raised over $55,000.
In the past four years, the event has raised more than $200,000.
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