The Lighthouse is a long-standing emergency shelter that serves as a beacon of hope and support for those experiencing homelessness in Orillia.
The shelter has demonstrated vision and determination, quickly evolving into a multi-service organization that serves thousands of vulnerable individuals.
The Lighthouse began as a youth drop-in centre in 1992 and later became a 14-bed men’s shelter in 1998. Today, thanks to the hard work of over 100 volunteers and raising $14.5 million, The Lighthouse operates out of a brand-new facility that services men, women and youth.
“We are thrilled that we were chosen,” said Rosemary Petersen, assistant director at The Lighthouse, when informed about their Community Builders Award win. “It’s encouraging to know that the community is behind us and sees the work that we’ve done.”
“We are working on expanding our outreach program to have a more youth-specific focus and we hope to continue to serve people who are experiencing homelessness,” she added.
The team works daily to ensure the overall well-being of everyone who accesses their services.
They also work with numerous community partners to ensure support continues even after people who access their programming leave The Lighthouse.
“This is a group of selfless and dedicated people who have stepped up for their community and its most vulnerable members,” said Chris Locke from Orillia Home Hardware Building Centre. “This project, this facility and this group of people are worthy of our thanks and gratitude.”
“The vision of The Lighthouse for a thriving community where everyone has hope, home and a future is not just an aspiration but a guiding principle,” said Michelle Bergin, executive director of CFS Counselling & Wellbeing.
“The organization's leaders and volunteers consistently demonstrate a deep sense of responsibility and empathy,” Michelle continues. “I am confident that The Lighthouse will continue to inspire positive change and contribute to the well-being of the community for years to come.”
The staff and volunteers at The Lighthouse are true heroes in the Orillia community.
This award goes to an individual or group with big ideas that has had a significant impact on the community.
Congratulations to The Lighthouse!
This award is proudly sponsored by Happy at Home.
