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Matawa First Nations will be hosting a benefit dinner on May 26th, 2005 in support of the Shelter House Thunder Bay. Celebrity, Tom Jackson will be the guest of honour.

Thunder Bay , 9th May, 2005: Matawa First Nations Management is proud to announce a fundraising dinner in support of Shelter House Thunder Bay, featuring First Nation celebrity, Tom Jackson as guest of honor. This event will take place on Thursday May 26th, 2005 at the Victoria Inn, and will include guest speakers, presentations, a silent auction and live entertainment. Hosted by Matawa First Nations Management, this event will raise funds for the Shelter House Thunder Bay Capital Fundraising Campaign.

Matawa First Nations Management will be organizing the dinner, arranging for sponsorship opportunities and collecting donations on behalf of Shelter House Thunder Bay in an effort to raise community awareness about the Shelter House, and raise much needed funds for the design and development of a new Shelter House Facility.

Says Director of Operations for Matawa First Nations Management, Bruce Visitor: "As an organization, our Chiefs feel it is very important to give back to those who support our First Nations in the region. The Shelter House continues to provide vital services for our members and we want to show our support for this campaign. Our staff likes to get involved in the community and gives much of their free time to volunteer activities. This particular event really touches us on a personal level, as a housing shortage is a major issue that we deal with every day. "

Executive Director Cal Rankin agrees with Visitor, saying; "We serve hundreds of people each year, providing them with the basic necessities of life: shelter, food, clothing and advocacy. With a service area that covers all of Northwestern Ontario, approximately 85% of Shelter House Thunder Bay’s client base is comprised of First Nations peoples. To see another non-profit organization reach out in this way is really heart-warming; it shows that there is a really strong basis of community support for the goals we are trying to achieve; goals that can only be met by a successful Capital Fundraising Campaign."

Information on sponsorship opportunities and tickets are available by calling Vivian Ledger at Matawa First Nations Management at: 807 344 4575. Tickets cost $120 per person.