TORONTO RAPE CRISIS CENTRE

MULTICULTURAL WOMEN AGAINST RAPE

Dear Supporter,

Bowlathon 2003 was our most successful yet bringing together 124 teams to raise $87,000! Our goal this year is to raise $100,000 and recruit 150 teams. The push for additional funds is to increase our direct service capacity, reflecting the demand for our programs and experience. Here's to our success on February 28, 2004 when Bowlathon takes place once again and our 30th Anniversary begins!

On February 14, 1974 a small volunteer group of housewives and students started a 24-hour crisis line for women who had been raped. They had a demonstration grant of $8,000 and no staff.

Our goal then, as it is now, was to end violence against women and children.

We had no idea we would still be here, 30 years later.

The crisis line received 120 calls in 1974 - last year we received 15,000. But our funding has not increased by the same proportions. In fact, funding to rape crisis centres was actually cut in 1995 and remained frozen for the past eight years.

Through your past support, you've demonstrated a commitment to building communities where violence is not the main dynamic of human relationships. As we enter our fourth decade, we hope that you will continue to partner with us.

We are asking the OFL to donate $250, which will sponsor a lane(s). As a community sponsor you will; receive a tax receipt, have your name prominently displayed on a banner across the aisle, and be included in all promotional material. We would love to hear from you by February 20/04 in order to meet our final deadline.

We appreciate your support. You know that sexual assault is wrong. It's still going on.

Please help put us out of business.

Deb Parent - Bowlathon Co-ordinator, x.233