THUNDER BAY – After working for years in mental health services, Mike Siska appreciates the work done by the Shelter House.
That’s why he has been a longtime participant in the organization’s annual Raise the Rent fundraiser.
“We see a lot of people who struggle on the street and really benefit from (the Shelter House),” he said. “It’s also nice to know there are places in the community that help.”
The 11th edition of the event was held on Tuesday, where volunteers were tasked with raising at least $1,000 to earn the privilege of spending the night at home.
Participants must call family, friends and acquaintances to help come up with the money, which represents the average cost of rent in the city.
“We see this a lot where (clients) come to this situation and it’s hard to come up with the rent and you have no resources to fall on,” Siska said.
The goal of this year’s event is to raise $25,000, which will be used to help the organization meet their $500,000 annual operating budget.
This year’s participants included Fort William First Nation Chief Georjann Morriseau and MP Bruce Hyer. One participant, George Gasbarrino from Bombardier, volunteered to spend the night at the George Street shelter.
Those at the facility in the early afternoon met with Shelter House client Robert Moskotaywenene, who told him about how staff at the facility have allowed him to pursue art while cleaning up his life.
He has done a handful of paintings, including a series of murals on the wall in the dining room.
“The Shelter House has been very helpful in supporting me and encouraging me in doing my best and that’s doing art,” he said.
“With artwork I sit down and by the time I’d realize it had been six or eight hours sitting there and it gives me a feeling of peace. It’s very comforting and relaxing. It’s the way I can find myself.”
