The Sooke Family Resource Society raised more than $10,000 on the Wadams Way Public Market, Sept. 27.
This was the first time the society has hosted a market, which also doubled as a fundraiser. The total amount raised is still being calculated.
Money generated through gaming, through the raffle and the 50/50 sales will go toward programs supported through gaming profits such as pre-natal programs, the Kingfisher preschool and neighbourhood house programs.
Funds raised through other efforts, including booth sales, will help cover costs of the child, family and adult services as well as counselling programs and fund programs for adults with disabilities and acute mental health concerns.
Sooke Family Resource Society (SFRS) managers Shannon Brower and Fleur Harvey-Kelly organized the event that drew in more than 50 vendors and three food trucks. More than 400 people came to the market that was also celebrating the opening of Wadams Way, 30 years of community service for SFRS and 10 years of services at the Sooke, Child and Youth Family Centre.
“It was fantastic for community engagement,” said Harvey-Fleur., “A lot of people came up to me and said just how great the market was.”
With the success of the Wadams Way Public Market SFRS has decided to turn the market in to an annual event.
“We really want to thank everyone who supported this from all the services, vendors and our sponsors who donated money so this could be possible,” Brower said.
One of the sponsors was M’akola Group of Societies who also had a booth at the market. M’akola staff assisted children and adults in making their own caramel apples. M’akola gave away more than 350 apples and 100 travel mugs with coffee from Stick in the Mud. M’akola Group of Societies has recently opened a four-storey apartment building in Sooke offering affordable housing to young adults between 19-31.
“Being welcomed into the community was what really stood out for us at M’akola being at the Wadams Way Market,” said Kevin Albers, M’akola CEO. “We are excited about our newest project The Hope Centre, and our newest community partner – the District of Sooke.”
The Taylor Caspersen Project, Jan the Music Ma’am, Fun Lay Kok Taoist Tai Chi, superheroes and Marty the Marmot all volunteered their time at the market as well.
For more information on the SFRS or to provide input or ideas for next year’s Wadams Way Public Market contact Brower at 778-433-2023 or email sbrower@sfrs.bc.ca.