Thank You for an Incredible Showing of Support for Survivors

For 17 years, our community has stepped up for survivors of gender-based violence through Walk a Mile in Their Shoes. This year was no exception.

More than 465 walkers, 46 teams, 40 volunteers and countless supporters gathered at Hamilton City Hall to walk in solidarity with survivors. Despite a wet and rainy day, our community showed up with determination, compassion and a shared commitment to building a future free from violence.

Together, we have already raised more than $105,375.19 toward our ambitious goal of $150,000. And thanks to a generous matching donor, every gift made before June 30 can have twice the impact.

A local family who believes deeply in YWCA Hamilton's work has pledged to match donations dollar-for-dollar up to $25,000 through the end of June. That means every donation made today will help us get closer to our goal while providing twice the support for women, girls and gender-diverse people seeking safety, stability and hope.

Donate before June 30 and your gift will be doubled.

Make a Gift that will be DOUBLED Today! 

The energy of the day never wavered. Emcee Robin Lacambra kept spirits high throughout the afternoon, joined by the TiCats Dance and Cheer Team and YWCA Hamilton's Health and Wellness Team, who led participants in a warm-up before the walk. The Hess Village BIA provided a delicious barbecue lunch, while The McLassie Highlanders, an all-women bagpipe band, delivered an unforgettable performance and played walkers off as they began their route around City Hall.

Before the walk began, YWCA Hamilton CEO Medora Uppal reminded participants why their support matters.

"Look around you. Look at the people on either side. Change does not happen because one organization decides to act. It happens when a community decides it will no longer accept things as they are. That is why we walk."

Those words resonated throughout the day. Because now more than ever, survivors need the services that Walk a Mile in Their Shoes funds. Leaving violence is only the first step. Through your support, YWCA Hamilton helps survivors find safety, secure housing, access critical supports and rebuild their lives.

"You are helping YWCA Hamilton be a lifeline for people in the hardest moments of their lives. Thank you for your hard work to get us here," said Medora.

We were also proud to recognize those who went the extra mile in their fundraising efforts.

Congratulations to our award winners:

• Top Individual Fundraiser: Rob Green ($4,226.50)
• Top Team Fundraiser: Team Alectra ($5,449)
• Top YWCA Staff Fundraiser: Sonia Emerson, Manager, Finance Operations ($1,252)
• Biggest Team Award: Team Alectra, led by Sam Livingstone

Congratulations as well to Grand Prize Winner Jonathon M. and Passport Winners Ellen W., Doris R., David D., Tabitha H. and Verna H.

Check Out Our Event Photos

View Walk a Mile in Their Shoes Gallery

While Walk a Mile may be over for another year, there is still time to make a difference.

With more than $105,000 raised, we're making incredible progress—but we still have work to do to reach our $150,000 goal. Every dollar donated before June 30 will be matched, helping ensure that survivors always have somewhere to turn when they need support most.

Together, we can double our impact and move one step closer to a community free from violence.

Thank You to Our Sponsors

This event would not have been possible without the generous support of our sponsors who share our commitment to creating a future without violence.

Groundbreaker Sponsors

• Alectra
• Findlay Injury & Disability Lawyers

Explorer Sponsors

• Hamilton Community Foundation
• LiUNA! Local 837
• Meridian Credit Union

Lunch Partner

• Hess Village BIA

Annual Partners

• Atomic Spark
• Soundbox Productions
• Starward Homes