Chosen to take part in Cambodia Challenge for Shelter this fall
MINDEMOYA—Leanne Lewis of Mindemoya is ready to embark on another life changing event by taking part in the Cambodia Challenge for Shelter.
“It is a great experience, it is life changing,” stated Ms. Lewis, who had taken part in a similar challenge in Ecuador in 2023.
“I applied for this year’s challenge, the Cambodia Challenge for Shelter,” said Ms. Lewis. “I will be one of 120 Royal LePage agents across Canada taking part. I applied in the fall and found out in January that I was one of the people chosen for this.”
Read our related story, “Leanne Lewis raises over $12,000 for Haven House”
“In October 2025, I will be heading to the other side of the globe to participate in the Cambodia Challenge for Shelter,” said Ms. Lewis. “For five days, I’ll be trekking alongside like-minded colleagues from coast-to-coast, all in support of the Royal LePage Shelter Foundation. While my trek towards the picturesque temples of Angkor Wat will be immensely rewarding, it will not be easy!”
“The days will be long, hot and humid and jet lag will be intense. I will be going without the comforts of home, sleeping in a small tent, using rustic bathroom facilities and unplugging completely from cell service and technology,” continued Ms. Lewis.
To be eligible to take part, Ms. Lewis will pay for her own trek and travel expenses and has to raise at least $10,000 for the Royal LePage Shelter Foundation. “I set a goal of $10,000 and will be approaching businesses and have a QR code in place for anyone who is interested in donating toward the cause.”
Of the funds Ms. Lewis’ raises, 80 percent will be directed to Manitoulin Haven House and 20 percent will fund national domestic violence prevention programs, said Ms. Lewis. She is helping to host a St. Patrick’s Day event on March 15 at the Mindemoya Curling Club. Live music will be provided by Cole Hughson, and local people are providing baking so there will be a penny table and toonie auction. James and Leanne Ferguson donated a Chilly Moose cooler for the auction. Members of the curling club will run the bar for the evening. The event will take place from 8 pm to 1am.
Read our related story, “Leanne Lewis moves into the top one percent of Royal LePage agents”
The Royal LePage Shelter Foundation has raised over $46 million to date and currently supports 200 local women’s shelters and national partners. Since its founding in 1998, the foundation has proudly grown to become the largest public foundation in Canada dedicated exclusively to funding women’s shelters and domestic violence prevention.
Royal LePage is the only Canadian real estate company with its own charitable foundation.
One hundred percent of funds raised and donated locally, stay local. Royal LePage Canada proudly pays the administrative expenses of the Royal LePage Shelter Foundation.
“When women and children arrive at their local shelter, they are provided with much more than a bed. The shelters we fund offer an incredible suite of supports and programs that help women heal from their traumas, regain their confidence, and build lives that are filled with hope instead of fear. These services can include: safe and secure emergency shelter, crisis intervention and safety plans, food, toiletries, clothing and transportation, employment and job training, safe pet programs, therapy and counselling, social and self-care activities, life skills workshops, child and youth centred care, legal assistance, housing assistance, sense of community and friendship, parenting programs, community supports after leaving the shelter.
“I know the adventure ahead will test me both physically and emotionally, but I’ve raised my hand because I believe that a house is only a home when the people who live there feel safe,” said Ms. Lewis. “As I face this challenge, I will draw strength knowing that every dollar I raise and every kilometre I walk will help make it easier for women and children to find the safety, hope and healing they deserve.”
