Langley, BC - When “moving house,” there is often an opportunity to repurpose and donate old belongings. Which is exactly why Qualico’s British Columbia regional office connected with Ishtar Transition House this past summer, when they were moving into their new office building.

 

Ishtar House is a twelve-bed facility that provides safe, clean, temporary emergency accommodations for women and their children leaving an abusive relationship. Based in Langley, BC, the charity runs completely on donations and is continually in need of household items including furniture, bedding, and cookware. 

 

Qualico’s connection to Ishtar House dates back to early 2019 when they were a recipient of an Acts of Kindness donation. Building on this relationship, Jonathan Meads, Vice-President, StreetSide Developments – Metro Vancouver, was quick to jump at the opportunity.

 

“When we realized we had excess ‘stuff’ we wouldn’t need, it occurred to me we could donate it to Ishtar House,” said Jonathan. “I am the Section Scouter for First Fort Langley Scout Troop, and last year, two of my Chief Scouts earned their Chief Scouts Award by helping out at Ishtar House. Again, this year, I had a Scout who wanted to earn her Award, and so I reached out to her, and asked if she would like to coordinate the donations with our regional office administrator, Janet MacLean.”

 

The region donated several tables and chairs, a BBQ, and several boxes of plates, glasses, cutlery and various kitchen utensils. The donation also included a festive array of Christmas and Halloween decorations! 

 

 “You should have seen our big boardroom table, it was absolutely covered with donations. Piles and boxes – it was quite something,” said Janet. “The donation was much appreciated, we’re glad we could help out.”