EcoEquitable is a registered charity with a mission to empower newcomer women and women experiencing barriers while reducing textile waste by stitching together community, sustainability, and creativity. Through inclusive sewing-based programs, they create pathways to connection, self-expression, and economic opportunity — while promoting environmental stewardship.

EcoEquitable was founded in 2002 by Lucile Champagne, a French Catholic nun, a trained psychotherapist, and the first female chaplain of Saint Paul University. One day, the women's support group she organized received a donation of sewing machines. They began to take on work in the community, and Lucile quickly realized that when women came together over a shared passion and dignified work, magic happens: social networks form, they earn income to support their families, and confidence blooms. This work continues through their programs today.

This year, I’m raising funds for EcoEquitable, an organization whose work I’ve had the privilege of witnessing up close. I was first introduced to EcoEquitable through the Weaving Threads of Change initiative at OCTEVAW, where I saw firsthand how deeply they centre care, dignity, and opportunity in their work with women. Later, in my role as Business Development & Education Director at CAWI, I had the opportunity to support their strategic planning process. That experience only deepened my respect for their commitment to building pathways that are both environmentally sustainable and rooted in gender equitable practices.

EcoEquitable is doing the kind of work that quietly transforms lives. They create space for women to build skills, confidence and community, while also addressing textile waste in a meaningful way. It is practical, thoughtful and grounded in real impact.

I’m supporting this fundraiser because I believe in the way they do their work, not just what they do. If you’re able to contribute, I would really appreciate your support in helping them continue and grow this important work.

Thank you for being part of it.