Surprise Valentine: Chico woman raises $1,400 for Torres Community Shelter
Like many Chicoans, Marisa Smiley has found that the issue of homelessness is never far from her mind. On a recent morning, she sipped her coffee while getting ready for the day and thought about how she could make a difference.
She then reached out to her friends on social media, and discovered that many had the same interests as her. They all wanted to understand the scope of the issue, its causes, and how they could help.
That’s when Marisa was inspired to drum up support and raise money for a good cause this Valentine’s Day. If just 35 people donated $40 each, she would be able to raise $1,400 for True North Housing Alliance’s emergency shelter, the Torres Community Shelter.
She created a Facebook fundraiser, encouraging people to send the shelter a special valentine gift in the form of a donation.
The response was phenomenal, Marisa said. In just one weekend, she raised enough money to reach her goal.
Marisa said she was drawn to support True North Housing Alliance because our organization is well-established and offers comprehensive services.
At True North, we are a full-spectrum continuum of care provider. In addition to our emergency shelter, the Torres Community Shelter, we provide many programs, including Street Outreach, Bridge Housing, Permanent Supportive Housing, Rapid Rehousing and Permanent Housing.
The population of those we serve is diverse, including families with children, seniors, veterans and adults, as well as those with chronic health conditions, individuals with mental illnesses and those recovering from addiction.
“You have a good reputation for what you do” at True North and the Torres Shelter, Marisa said. “It’s not just a meal. People need a place to live and they need services to get them off the street. The best thing that I can do is give you money to do what you do best.”
About Marisa:
Marisa is a yogi and owner of Strong Again Yoga & Movement Arts. Giving back is a passion of hers and a core tenant of her profession. Marisa is a regular attendee of True North’s annual fundraising event, Empty Bowls, and after the Camp Fire, she offered free trauma-informed yoga classes for survivors.
How You Can Help:
Your support is needed now more than ever. True North Housing Alliance unfortunately had to cancel our biggest fundraisers for the 2020-21 year, the 2020 Gratitude Gala and 2021 Empty Bowls. Anything you can give makes a difference when it comes to helping us get through these challenging times.
Send our guests a Valentine: Make your contribution today!