Helping in a Host of Ways
School supplies donated by the Fermières
Alice is very aware of this: the Fermières are involved in so many organizations that she finds it difficult to remember what they all are. In their city, in their province, and internationally, the Fermières de Saint-Eustache contribute to all kinds of causes everywhere.
Since 1940, all the Cercles in Québec have been supporting the Associated Country Women of the World, an international organization that brings together women from rural areas to make connections, share knowledge and develop projects by and for these women. In addition, they support Mira, Préma-Québec and the Fondation Olo by raising funds and making items for them. Mira is a well-known organization that provides guide dogs to people with certain types of disabilities, and to young people with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The missions of the other two organizations are even more directly connected with the well-being of women and families, an important value for the Fermières. While Préma-Québec supports the parents of premature babies by providing them with psychological and financial support, the Fondation Olo (which stands for œuf-lait-orange – egg-milk-orange) provides assistance to young mothers facing food insecurity.
In Saint-Eustache, the Fermières participate in the Christmas food drive and donate school supplies and winter wear to schools. This work on behalf of children is especially important to Lucille Gauthier.
Donations for schools (subtitles available in EN and FR). Watch the video with the transcript (EN)
For the past few years, members have also donated to Le Répit de la rue, a local organization for people experiencing homelessness that is part of Ressources communautaires ACJ+ (community resources/community welcoming youth).
The Fermières’ contribution to the Répit de la rue for people experiencing homelessness (subtitles available in EN and FR). Watch the video with the transcript (EN)
In keeping with today’s concerns, the Fermières have taken an interest in environmental issues. Board member Suzanne Lemay-Robitaille has set up a zero-waste project. Bags of various sizes are made, and they have been a big hit at the organization’s exhibitions and sales.
The zero-waste project (subtitles available in EN and FR). Watch the video with the transcript (EN)