Two staff members of Matthew’s House in Abbotsford are organizing a series of fundraisers to help replace the home’s dishwasher and washing machine.
The first event being held by Leila Thiessen and Lisa Falle is a paint night on Sunday, May 27 from 6 to 8 p.m at the Abbotsford Curling Club (2555 McMillan Rd.) with artist Tammy McCormick.
Cost is $60 per person, and the pair hope to get 50 people out to the event.
Thiessen and Falle speak passionately about how important it is to have Matthew’s House in their community.
That’s why they are also committed to raising funds so that the home can continue to provide quality care.
When Thiessen applied to work at Matthew’s House and was given a tour of the Serenity Garden, she knew right away that this was where she was meant to be.
“It was like confirmation from God,” she says.
That was seven months ago and she has developed a deep love for the work she does, supporting children who live with complex care needs.
Falle has been working at Matthew’s House for over a year. She also finds her work deeply rewarding.
“Seeing the smiles on the faces of the children, knowing that they are safely and well cared for makes working here a joy,” she says. “We know that this place makes a difference to families.”
Matthew’s House supports families by providing quality care to children who live with complex care needs.
This home-away-from-home first opened its doors in November 2013 and has been in demand ever since. Because they work here, Thiessen and Falle have seen the impact that respite care has on the families.
“I wish people could see how huge the impact is for the whole family,” Thiessen says. “It means that parents can spend time with each other or with their other children and just get the rest they need.”
Other fundraisers will follow in the summer, with hotdog sales happening at the Otter Co-op in Aldergrove on July 7.
On Aug. 11, they’re teaming up with the organizers of the Take It To the Streets Hockey Tournament to do a barbecue for those who attend.
Register for the paint night by emailing dlpwhite@telus.net or texting 604-996-6244.
For more information on Matthew’s House, visit mattshouse.ca.