Walk to End Violence Against Women Unites Halton Community

By: Laura Steiner, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, The Milton Reporter

 

Hundreds of residents, local businesses, and community groups came together on November 1 at Spencer Smith Park for the annual Hope in Every Step Walk, raising awareness and funds to support Halton Women’s Place, the region’s only women’s shelter. This year’s fundraising goal of $25,000 was surpassed, with $40,025 raised by Sunday evening.

 

The walk kicked off Women Abuse Prevention Month, an annual campaign highlighting the urgent need to address gender-based violence. Participants strolled along the Burlington waterfront and downtown Lakeshore Road, sending a clear message that the Halton community stands united against domestic violence.

 

“Every woman and child deserves to live free from fear,” said Nargis Bano, a Milton resident who attended the walk, emphasizing the shelter’s work providing safe emergency housing, outreach programs, and one-on-one transitional support.

 

“Your participation and donations help survivors take the courageous steps toward safety, healing, and hope.”

 

Local businesses also joined the Purple Plate Movement, offering purple-themed items and creating safer spaces through initiatives like the Ask Angela campaign in bars and restaurants. One standout supporter, Turtle Jack’s Muskoka Grill in Milton, hosted a Toonie Drive to benefit Halton Women’s Place.

 

A highlight of the walk included a heartfelt message from Fartumo Kusow, who shared the story of her daughter Sahra Bulle, a victim of domestic violence. The emotional testimony underscored the real-life impact of the services supported by community fundraising.

 

The event featured participation by the Burlington Cougars Jr. A hockey club and Oakville’s Iroquois Ridge High School football team. 

 

Individual fundraisers like Raheem and The Dream Team 2025 raised over $2,800, exemplifying the power of male allyship and community involvement.

 

Fundraising Incentives: Participants who raise funds can unlock exclusive event merchandise:

 

Starter: $200 — Hope in Every Step socks

 

Momentum Maker: $500 — 40 oz. custom tumbler

 

Hope Champion: $1,000 — Limited edition hoodie

 

Legacy Walker: $2,000 — All three items

 

Every donation, step, and voice helps ensure women and children fleeing violence have access to critical support, shelter, and guidance. Fundraising pages remain open until November 7.

 

Sidebar: Community Events Calendar — Women Abuse Prevention Month

 

Hope in Every Step Walk

 

Date: Saturday, November 1, 2025

 

Location: Spencer Smith Park, Burlington

 

Details: Annual walk to end violence against women, including live music, lunch, and community activities.

 

Wrapped in Courage Campaign

 

Dates: All November

 

Details: Wear purple scarves to show support for survivors. Schools, workplaces, and residents encouraged to participate.

 

Shine the Light on Woman Abuse

 

Dates: All November

 

Details: Homes, businesses, and municipal buildings light up in purple to raise awareness.

 

Wallet to Wealth Gala — Halton Women’s Place

 

Date: Friday, November 14, 2025

 

Location: Oakville Conference Centre

 

Details: Major fundraising gala supporting Halton Women’s Place.

 

 Flag Raisings & Proclamations

 

Dates: Throughout November

 

Details: Municipalities across Halton, including Milton, Burlington, Oakville, and Halton Hills, hold ceremonies recognizing Women Abuse Prevention Month.

 

 Why It Matters:

 

Purple symbolizes courage and solidarity. Funds raised support shelter, counselling, outreach, and advocacy services for women and children fleeing abuse.