This is the 41st in a series of columns written by staff from The Lighthouse to help the community better understand people experiencing homelessness and those who support them. This column appears every other Monday.
As a retiree who has called Orillia home for 18 years, Joyce Ward, a former human resources manager with the provincial Ministry of Health in Toronto, has dedicated much of her time to addressing a growing issue in the region: the lack of suitable and affordable housing.
Upon moving to Orillia, Joyce became involved in the Orillia Community Opportunity Scan, an inter-church project that surveyed the community to identify its most pressing needs. The clear consensus was that affordable housing was the top concern.
This realization prompted her to become active in local advocacy, joining the Simcoe County Alliance to End Homelessness (SCATEH) and serving as chair for several years. Its focus has been on raising awareness of homelessness and advocating for more housing solutions and support services for people who are experiencing homelessness.
“We’ve made progress in understanding the causes of homelessness and identifying best practices, but the bottom line is that the number of people in need of housing continues to grow, and the situation has now reached a crisis level,” said Joyce.
A passionate believer in the right to stable housing, Joyce views it as essential for health and well-being. This commitment drives her advocacy efforts, pushing to ensure housing remains a priority within the community.
“Adequate, stable housing is not just a necessity; it’s a human right,” she explained. “We need to prioritize it in every community, and I feel compelled to do everything I can to make a difference.”
Beyond her work with SCATEH, Joyce is a longtime supporter of The Lighthouse, as we are dedicated to providing essential services to people experiencing homelessness. Joyce has been involved with The Lighthouse since the early planning stages of our new facilities and Building Hope, and she contributed to our capital campaign. She continues to support the organization due to its strong leadership and its commitment to providing life-changing services to people experiencing homelessness.
“The Lighthouse is more than just a shelter,” Joyce said. “It offers dignity, respect, and the chance for individuals to rebuild their lives. Whether it’s providing a hot meal, a safe place to sleep, or resources for overcoming addiction or mental health challenges, the impact of The Lighthouse is significant.”
For many, The Lighthouse provides a critical lifeline. It offers not only practical assistance but also emotional support, creating a sense of community among its participants. Many find hope in individualized plans that help them work toward stable housing. For others, the services provided are life saving, especially in extreme weather conditions.
“The Lighthouse is truly a beacon in the darkness of homelessness,” said Joyce. “It shines a light on the path forward, offering hope for those who have lost it.”
As homelessness continues to be a significant issue in Orillia, Joyce believes The Lighthouse plays a vital role in the community. Through its partnership with local volunteers and organizations, The Lighthouse strengthens Orillia by responding to immediate needs while also working toward long-term solutions.
“Supporting The Lighthouse benefits our entire community,” Joyce added. “It helps us come together to care for those in need and work towards a future where everyone has a safe, stable place to live.”
The Lighthouse remains an essential resource for those affected by homelessness and continues to inspire efforts toward a more inclusive and compassionate community.
This holiday season, join Joyce in making a difference by supporting The Lighthouse through the Hope for the Holidays campaign. The campaign aims to raise $50,000 to provide essential services to those experiencing homelessness in our community.
All funds raised will directly support The Lighthouse’s critical work, covering the costs of shelter, food, essential staff, heating, and all aspects of running an emergency shelter, outreach program, supportive housing, and more. These resources are vital for people experiencing homelessness, ensuring they have a safe place to stay, access to meals, and the support necessary to rebuild their lives.
Help us meet our goal of $50,000 and provide a brighter future for those experiencing homelessness. To donate and learn more about how you can help, visit orillialighthouse.ca. Let’s come together this holiday season and make a real impact.
Linda Goodall is the executive director at The Lighthouse and can be reached at [email protected].
Rosemary Petersen is the managing director at The Lighthouse and can be reached at [email protected].
