'We are so grateful': Square One exceeds Walk for Warmth fundraising goal

Square One Community Inc. Moose Jaw continues to have pledges funnel in following their first-ever Walk for Warmth that took place last week.  

Della Ferguson, the chairperson for Square One says that they exceeded their fundraising goal thanks to the help of the community.  

“At this point, we’re at $32,000 and growing,” says Ferguson. “We still have pledges yet to be returned and looking forward to folks lining up so we can get our final total. We are so grateful.” 

Ferguson adds that Square One set a goal of $30,000 for their first-ever Walk for Warmth.  

“For a first-time event that is such a question mark and so we just thought let’s set $30,000 as our goal. It couldn’t have made us happier when that total rose above that $30,000 mark.”  

Over 200 people braved the elements to support Square One in their goal to create the city’s first-ever women’s emergency shelter and add a warming space for Moose Jaw’s displaced population.  

“There was ice, but they were out there because that’s what it’s all about. We’re doing this for folks that don’t have a choice. These people chose and showed up that evening to stand and walk in solidarity and say we see you and we want to support you in having a safe place to go.” 

The walk started at Zion United Church, continued around Crescent Park, and wrapped up at St. Aidan Anglican Church. Along the way, a short memorial service was held on the steps of St. Andrew's United Church. Musicians Megan Nash and Kara Golemba performed during the closing program. 

Della Ferguson, the chairperson for Square One

In regards to the warming space and emergency women's shelter, Square One has secured space at William Milne Place in partnership with Moose Jaw Non-Profit Housing Society.   

The space, which was previously leased by the City of Moose Jaw has been terminated with Global Direct Reality, and Square One will take possession on Apr. 1.  

“That’s our first opportunity to be in the door of it. We’re doing everything in our power right now and working toward opening it as soon as we can. It takes a lot of money to run an initiative like that. We are going to continue reaching out to the community to make this happen.  

The location being looked at is the old fire hall, now known as William Milne Place, which is owned by Moose Jaw Non-Profit Housing Corporation.   

In the meantime, as Square continues to try and open up its warming centre and emergency shelter, they’re continuing to help Moose Jaw’s vulnerable population.  

One way they do that is to provide daily meals for those that are battling the elements, which is a part of their Cold Weather Strategy.  

Square One is in need of volunteers for Saturday suppers.  

“Different organizations are hosting the meal, but we need volunteers to help welcome guests, be the servers, and help prep the meal.” 

They need volunteers from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m. for Saturday meals at the Salvation Army. In total, they will need roughly five to seven volunteers every Saturday to help out.  

Residents that want to help out can email Square One at communitysquareone@gmail.com 

(With files from Cory Knutt/Discover Moose Jaw)