July 20, 2021, By: Aileen Zangouei, Newmarket Era Original Article
Blue Door has partnered with Home Depot locations in Aurora, Bradford, and Newmarket for this year’s Orange Door Campaign.
The 2021 Orange Door Campaign will raise funds to support Blue Door’s new INNclusion program which provides supportive and transitional housing for 2SLGBTQ+ youth experiencing homelessness.
According to a Blue Door media release, one in five Canadians experiencing homelessness are youth, making homelessness one of the toughest social issues facing Canadians today.
The campaign began on July 6 and will run until Aug. 1. Its aim is to raise funds to help run the important services offered through the INNclusion program, such as the life skills development program.
The INNclusion program is the first of its kind in York Region. Prior to its inception, there were no other safe housing options for 2SLGBTQ+ youth who are often forced into homelessness to escape identity-based abuse experienced at home, according to Blue Door.
“We see this population suffering every day. To provide hope and support Blue Door launched INNclusion earlier this year, which now offers safe space for 2SLGBTQ+ youth to heal from trauma, escape homelessness, and thrive in their community,” said Michael Braithwaite, CEO of Blue Door.
The Home Depot Canada Foundation has pledged to raise $50 million, through the campaign, by the end of 2022 to improve housing options, and invest in research that ensures funding is directed to the most effective solutions designed to help youth build brighter futures.
Home Depot customers can donate $2 in store, or online at orangedoorproject.ca where 100 per cent of the funds will benefit Blue Door.
Blue Door has been serving the population of York Region for over 39 years, providing supports including housing, health and employment for families and men, women, children, and youth who are experiencing, or are at risk of, homelessness.