Unwanted gold and silver, along with precious and semi-precious stones, are all wanted by Nanaimo Women Helping Women, to help them continue serving clients fleeing domestic violence. (Dreamstime)

By Alex Rawnsley

women helping women

Jewellery fundraiser launched for Nanaimo non-profit

Apr 14, 2024 | 6:02 AM

NANAIMO — A local non-profit hopes they’ve stumbled upon a golden idea.

Nanaimo Women Helping Women are kicking off a fundraiser which runs through April 30, to collect unwanted gold and silver jewellery, which can then be converted in to cash for vital programs and supports.

Founder Kerri Isham said they’re hoping to collect a sizeable amount of gold, silver, precious and semi-precious stones.

“Some of us have one earring that we lost and we were hoping to get it back, and that was 10 years ago so that could be donated. Some people may have a broken chain they were going to get repaired a decade ago and haven’t done it.”

The came from a friend of Isham’s, who went through her recently deceased mother’s collection and gave some pieces to Isham to sell for Nanaimo Women Helping Women.

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Over $600 was raised.

Whatever is collected will go towards supports and services for women fleeing domestic violence situations.

“It can be anything from short term hotel stays, locker rentals so they don’t lose their household goods, it can be grocery cards, gift cards for gas, sometimes we pay for people’s medications or car insurance. Basically whatever the client needs to take the next step in their wellness journey.

The group is on track to help around 100 women this year alone, with demand for their help only increasing since 2020.

Those with donations can email nanaimowomenhelpingwomen@gmail.com to arrange drop-off at one of two locations in the city, or pickup.

UPDATE: Kerri Isham said the fundraiser collected $7,106.49 through the month-long campaign.

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