A major donation to the Downtown Mission in Windsor includes a challenge to the community.
An anonymous donor is willing to match any community donations, up to $1-million, in support of the Wellness & Recovery Centre.
Executive Director Ron Dunn says the mission is over the moon with the proposed offer. "It's the largest gift offer we've ever had and we're just super excited about the work we could do if the community helps us meet the challenge. We're going to change a lot more lives and we're just super excited about that."
"Community support is needed," says Dunn. "I know there's lots going on right now. I know there's lots of people who have their own issues with flooding and things like that but this is an opportunity that once it's gone, it's gone. So we're really hoping that the community will come together and help us capitalize on this incredible gift."
The deadline to have your donation matched is October 31st.
The mission's Wellness Centre at 875 Ouellette Ave. includes a 74 bed shelter for men, women, youth and families.
It also includes an expanded food bank, expanded employment skills programs and the sanctuary program.
- with files from AM800's Kathie McMann