March 2025 Newsletter
The Significance of International Women’s Day: Celebrating 50 Years of Impact with Sara for Women
International Women’s Day (IWD) on March 8 has always been an important day for me. It’s a time to celebrate the strength, resilience, and achievements of women everywhere while acknowledging the work still ahead to achieve true gender equality.
This year feels especially meaningful as we celebrate the 50th anniversary of SARA for Women—an organization that has been changing lives in our community for half a century. As someone who advocates for women’s empowerment, I’ve seen firsthand how essential organizations like Sara for Women are. They provide not just shelter and crisis support, but hope, safety, and a pathway to independence for women and children escaping violence and systemic barriers.
Fifty years is a long time, and the impact SARA for Women has had is immeasurable. Generations of women have found the support they needed because of their work. When I think about the stories of survival and strength that have emerged from their programs, I am reminded why we must keep pushing for progress.
International Women’s Day is about more than just recognizing achievements—it’s about action. It’s about ensuring that organizations like Sara for Women continue to have the resources and support they need to do this critical work. It’s about businesses, nonprofits, and individuals stepping up to create a world where women not only survive but thrive.
As we celebrate both IWD and this incredible milestone for Sara for Women, let’s recommit to the fight for equity—not just for a day, but every day. Let’s listen, support, and uplift the women in our lives and ensure that every woman has access to the safety, opportunity, and empowerment she deserves.
Sarah De Klein, MBA
Advocacy Chair, Abbotsford Chamber of Commerce Women’s Leadership Council
Celebrating 50 Years of Resilience: Igniting Hope – Join Us!
SARA for Women is marking 50 years of strength, resilience, and hope! Join us on May 28, 2025, at The Reach Gallery for an evening of inspiring stories, meaningful connections, and community impact. This special event will honour our past, celebrate resilience, and look toward a future where all women and children can thrive.
Tickets- $25.00
Read the following letter to SARA from a former client. This is why we do what we do.
“Dear SARA for Women Team,
A few years ago, I reached out regarding the domestic violence I had been experiencing for far too many years. I was absolutely terrified to step into the unknown, as I had been married for over ten years and had a young child. A friend who had faced similar experiences was able to flee with her children with the support of SARA for Women. This gave me the strength to realize I was not alone. As scared as I was to leave, I knew I would be supported.
SARA for Women was there for me from the moment I made that first call, providing guidance and reassurance. They continued to support me through every step of my journey. The day I fled for safety, I knew what to do because of their previous guidance. My child and I were provided shelter, clothes, food, and an incredible amount of support to navigate what came next.
SARA for Women lead me to a new beginning and a journey of healing from years of trauma from my now estranged husband. For the first time in so long, I have found safety, and even though I still experience fear at times, SARA’s support has helped me find strength in those moments. The support extends beyond just providing safety, it has given me the space to truly focus on my healing. While I attend my counseling sessions, I have the reassurance of knowing that my child is in safe hands with a childcare provider. Additionally, I was able to have direct contact with government assistance, which has been instrumental in helping me get on my feet. The staff member I worked with was truly kind and knowledgeable, guiding me through the process with patience and understanding.
Words can't fully express my appreciation. The staff at SARA for Women are warm, kind, and create an atmosphere of safety and compassion. I always feel in the best hands with them, knowing that they genuinely care and go above and beyond to provide support and guidance. Whether it’s a reassuring conversation, a much needed hug, lunches, meeting for activities, celebrations or simply a welcoming presence, their impact is immeasurable.
To all those who donate, thank you from the bottom of my heart. Your generosity creates real change in the lives of women and children, giving hope where it was once lost. Every act of kindness, every contribution, makes a difference in ways that go beyond measure. I look forward to the day when I will be fully on my feet and able to give back, knowing firsthand the strength, resilience, and community that come from this incredible organization and support system.
With endless gratitude, Anonymous”