City of Peterborough Celebrating International Women's Day This Saturday
/The City of Peterborough is celebrating International Women’s Day this Saturday.
Photo by David Tuan Bui.
Peterborough Blogs
Photos: Peterborough's Appetites Kept Full at YWCA Empty Bowls Fundraiser
/The YWCA hosted the 2025 edition of its Empty Bowls Fundraiser that aids food insecurity in our communities at The Venue on Friday afternoon.
Proceeds from the fundraiser were split between One City’s food programming and Kawartha Food Share.
Roughly 140 participants ate lunch from 11 restaurants while shopping for hand-crafted bowls created by local artisans of the Kawartha Potters Guild.
The following were participating local restaurants that served food at the event:
By the Bridge
Revelstoke Café
Vanilla room
La Mesita
Hard Winter Bakery
Ashburnham Ale House
Levantine Grill
St. Veronus
Fresh Dreams
Hanoi House
Sam’s Place
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YWCA Seeks Board Directors and Volunteers
/YWCA Peterborough Haliburton seeks volunteers to join the Board of Directors and committees.
File Photo.
“We are looking for volunteers who are passionate about women’s issues and have the desire to be involved with an organization that provides life-saving programs, tools and resources that help women and children thrive,” said Sherri Ireland, YWCA Peterborough Haliburton Board President. “The YWCA plays a vital role in our community and its sustainability depends on women who will make impactful decisions in support of our mission: YWCA Peterborough Haliburton exists to help women and children in our communities live safely and know satisfaction and joy in their daily lives. We offer shelter, educational programming, counselling, and advocacy, in collaboration with the community and women themselves. The YWCA knows that its fiscal management, community reputation and most importantly, valued staff are the basis for these trusting relationships.”
"YWCA Peterborough Haliburton is committed to Reconciliation and encourages women from all backgrounds and age groups to join our organization; especially women 30 years of age and younger. As a learning board, we offer the opportunity to share our experience with those who may be new to Board governance. We know the value of having varied skillsets and experiences, and are particularly interested in the areas of finance, Truth and Reconciliation, governance and recruitment. As an organization, we will always be committed to ensuring diverse perspectives that reflect the communities we serve.”
Roles require roughly six hours a month. Applications can be submitted online.
Applications will be accepted until April 1.
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Morton Family Foundation Makes $50,000 Donation to YWCA For the Fifth Consecutive Year
/The Morton Family Foundation has donated $50,000 to YWCA Peterborough Haliburton for the fifth consecutive year to support the YWCA’s services for women and children in Haliburton County, announced on Monday.
Photo courtesy of the YWCA.
Patricia and David Morton have donated to the YWCA for 12 years and have given $50,000 each year since 2020.
The money will support YWCA’s programs in Haliburton County, which provide rural women experiencing violence and abuse with vital services including safety planning, counselling, and legal assistance.
Patricia, a professor emerita who taught history and women’s studies for 26 years at Trent University, said that their commitment to the YWCA stems from the epidemic of gender-based abuse and violence against women in our country.
“About 44 per cent of Canadian women (6.2 million people) have reported experiencing psychological or physical abuse in an intimate relationship,” she explained. “Gender-based violence has severe ramifications on the health of the victims – including traumatic brain injuries that can result in lasting mental health challenges and even death, as well as lasting traumatic impacts on their children. David and I feel very fortunate to be able to contribute again to YWCA Peterborough Haliburton’s vital support services and safe shelters for the many women who are endangered by gender-based abuse and too often deadly violence.”
Patricia notes that close to 200 women in Canada were killed by femicide last year with over 60 cases in Ontario. YWCA states that the true numbers are even higher, as many instances of violence and abuse are never reported,and statistics only include those cases ruled as femicide by authorities.
“Clearly femicide must be stopped, and all levels of government must enact legislation that provides protection, safety, support, and affordable housing for the survivors of gender-based abuse and violence,” said Patricia. “Isolated rural women are especially vulnerable to intimate partner abuse and violence and to femicide.
“The Morton Family Foundation has reached a milestone in their tradition of generosity, after five years of leadership giving,” said Kim Dolan, YWCA executive director. “I am truly grateful every day for Patricia and David’s dedication to supporting so many worthwhile community initiatives. I offer them thanks on behalf of every woman and child we serve in Haliburton County, for providing them with the resources and support they need to feel safe again.”
“I believe it is so important to support YWCA Peterborough Haliburton in their effort to protect women who are in very vulnerable situations,” said David. “I urge others to support the YWCA in this effort.”
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City of Peterborough to Recognize National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women
/The City of Peterborough is recognizing the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women is recognized each year on Dec. 6.
File Photo.
It remembers the 14 women murdered at École Polytechnique in Montréal during a shocking act of gender-based violence. The National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women is also a day to reflect on the continuing issue of violence against women.
Mayor Jeff Leal has made the following statement on the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women:
“On December 6, the City of Peterborough joins Canadians across the nation in observing the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women. This day holds a solemn significance as we honour the 14 women who tragically lost their lives on this day in 1989 at École Polytechnique. Their memory reminds us of the urgent need to address and end gender-based violence in all its forms.
Gender-based violence continues to persist in our communities. It is a harsh reality that undermines the safety, dignity, and potential of so many. We must recognize that this is not a private issue—it is a societal one, demanding collective action and commitment.
"In Peterborough we are committed to fostering a community where everyone feels safe, valued, and supported. I encourage all residents to reflect on the role we each play in challenging sexism, advocating for equity, and supporting survivors.”
Resources
YWCA Peterborough Haliburton provides shelter, resources and support for women escaping gender-based violence.
The Peterborough Domestic Abuse Network, a network of organizations working to end domestic abuse in the City and Peterborough County.
The Kawartha Sexual Assault Centre provides support to anyone affected by sexual violence or harm, including crisis support and counselling.
The Government of Canada, National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women
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Women’s Business Network Annual Fundraising Holiday Gala and Auction Announced For Dec. 4
/The Women’s Business Network (WBN) of Peterborough has announced its annual Holiday Gala and Auction, taking place on Dec. 4 at the Peterborough Holiday Inn.
Photo by David Tuan Bui.
This year’s event features an Online Auction from Nov. 20 to Dec. 5 at 6 p.m, hosted on the Nonprofit Bidding platform.
Proceeds from this year’s gala will support YWCA Peterborough Haliburton's vital programs and services, focusing on women experiencing gender-based violence according to a press release. The WBN has set a fundraising goal of $15,000 to help provide essential support for women and children escaping abusive situations in our community.
The WBN seeks donations for the auction and encourages the community to contribute items such as gift certificates, tickets, memberships or items valued at $25 or more. Donors will receive recognition through their company name/logo displayed alongside their donated items and exposure across WBN’s social media platforms and during the event.
Items can be donated online.
Once the auction closes, a pick-up can be arranged with the winning bidder through the auction site.
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City of Peterborough Recognizing October As Women's History Month
/The City of Peterborough is recognizing October as Women’s History Month with the theme as ‘Women at Work: Economic Growth Past, Present, and Future.’
Photo by David Tuan Bui.
In honour of the occasion, Mayor Jeff Leal has released the following statement:
As we observe Women’s History Month this October, it’s an honour to celebrate the pivotal role that women have played in shaping our workforce and driving economic growth throughout history. This year’s theme, “Women at Work: Economic Growth Past, Present, and Future,” highlights the significant contributions women have made to our community’s prosperity.
From pioneers in traditional fields to modern innovators, women have been a driving force in our local economy. Today, and every day, we recognize the importance of their leadership, entrepreneurship, and dedication in industries. As we look to the future, we must continue to create inclusive spaces to ensure women are empowered to reach their full potential in every sector.
On behalf of the City of Peterborough, I encourage everyone to take time this month to reflect on the profound impact of women in the workforce, past and present. Let’s celebrate their achievements and commit to fostering a future where all women can thrive.
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Hometown PTBO: Erica Evans As a Lacrosse Ambassador and World Lacrosse Box Championships Experience
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This week on Hometown PTBO, David Tuan Bui talks with Erica Evans of Team Canada about her journey and performance at the Women's World Lacrosse Championships, being a lacrosse ambassador for the next generation and the origin story of getting into the sport.
Businesswomen to Be Recognized By Peterborough and the Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce's Luminary Awards Launch
/The Peterborough and the Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce are launching The Luminary Awards to celebrate women in business, which were announced on Wednesday night.
Photo courtesy of the Peterborough and the Kawartha Chamber of Commerce.
The awards are to shine a light on the valuable contributions that women in business community have made, continue to push for, and inspire others to emulate according to a press release.
The Luminary Awards will celebrate the remarkable achievements of local women in business who inspire and shape our community. The event champions women who are named in leadership positions and those who lead from behind the scenes.
“Women in business face many unique hurdles and challenges. We are excited to launch this inaugural event that will not only recognize women, but also celebrate their amazing feats and achievements,” said Sarah Budd, Peterborough Chamber president and CEO.
The awards are open to all women who live or work in the City and County of Peterborough. Some categories have specific criteria, such as the minimum length of time a business has been active or an age requirement. Nominations are not limited to business owners, including managers and employees at all workforce levels. The awards luncheon will be on May 8 in the Great Hall at Champlain College at Trent University.
Nominations can be submitted at luminaryawards.ca.
There are five award categories:
Trailblazer – Entrepreneur
Barrier Buster – Employee
One to Watch – Employee
Emerging Entrepreneur
Legacy
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Kawartha Sexual Assault Centre's "Take Back the Night" Hits Peterborough Square For Survivors of Gender-Based Violence and Sexual Assault
/Kawartha Sexual Assault Centre and partnering community organizations will host the 46th annual Take Back the Night advocacy and awareness event in Nogojiwanong- Peterborough at the Peterborough Square Courtyard on Sept. 19.
Photo courtesy of Fleming College.
