Yesterday we gathered for the 2nd Annual M-Power Brunch on the weekend of International Women’s Day. A day that calls us to reflect not only on the progress women have made, but on the work that still lies ahead. This year’s theme, Give To Gain, reminds us that when we give generously, we create the conditions for women and families to thrive.
At the heart of this year’s event was a courageous mother who shared her story. She arrived at Emma House with her newborn daughter carrying fear, uncertainty and very few belongings.
“Emma House isn’t just a physical place. It’s not a house, it’s a home. You feel people around you who have your back to help and support. It’s a family,” she said.
When the weather turned cold, shortly after she fled her violent situation, the weight of uncertainty nearly pulled her back. The fear of facing winter alone with a newborn felt overwhelming. Without safe, stable housing, she said many women feel they have no choice but to return.
“Without Emma House or places like Emma House, a lot of women would not leave that toxic environment. These toxic environments don’t just affect them; they affect their kids.”
When she arrived at Emma House, her daughter was struggling with separation and anxiety. “I had to take her with me even to the washroom,” she said. “She didn’t like anyone else.”
Everything changed at Emma House.
“It warms your heart knowing someone really cares for you and they’re there when you need them. You don’t feel hopeless.”
Her daughter is now, in her words, a happy baby — social, smiling and thriving in a community where she feels safe.
This year’s International Women’s Day theme, Give To Gain, reminds us that when we give, we gain. Giving safety allows women to gain stability. Giving support allows families to gain strength. Giving community allows children to gain healthy beginnings.
Emma House exists because significant barriers to gender equality persist — especially for women navigating violence and housing instability. When we give generously — through funding, advocacy, time and compassion — we multiply opportunity.
When women thrive, we all rise.
On this International Women’s Day, we are reminded that generosity is powerful. By choosing to Give To Gain, we are not only supporting one woman or one child — we are helping create futures filled with safety, dignity and hope.
