Right now the cosmetic industry’s big trend is blending glamour with social responsibility.
L’Oréal, a worldwide cosmetics giant that in 2017 earned $26 billion, is turning some of these explosive profits into avenues of community giving.
On International Women’s Day, O'Loréal Paris Canada, as part of its third annual Women of Worth program, is giving 10 remarkable women, who inspire and foster change, $110,000 in charitable grants.
One of the 10 honourees who addressed a crucial need and is making the world a better place is Morinville resident Lynne Rosychuk.
After her daughter, Jessica Martel, was murdered by her common-law partner, Rosychuk tirelessly dedicated herself to build a first stage emergency shelter for victims of violence.
Not only was Rosychuk instrumental in building a safe place for families escaping violence, she is also giving them a future – one her own daughter never lived to enjoy.
The build is on schedule for completion in July 2019 and Jessie’s House is expected to open in 2020.
“I am touched and honoured to be singled out with these amazing women. They all have added something extra to our lives,” said Rosychuk.
She will receive $10,000 to support the Jessica Martel Memorial Foundation and an all-expense paid trip for two to Toronto to be recognized at a star-studded Awards Gala on March 8, International Women’s Day.
The awards package includes two round-trip airplane tickets, hotel room, meals, taxi fare, a makeover on the day of the gala and a photo shoot.
When asked who Rosychuk would take as her companion, she replied without missing a beat, “My husband, Lawrence, of course. He’s my first choice. He’s been so supportive. He’s always been there and looked after the kids when I’m at functions. And he’s done so much to help out.”
L’Oréal Paris is also awarding a 2019 national honouree an additional $10,000. The national honouree is selected through an online vote. Now through March 4, supporters can join in voting for Rosychuk at www.WomenofWorth.ca.
The entirety of Rosychuk’s award will be directed to purchasing whatever is needed at Jessie’s House, possibly a security system or furniture.
Since Jessie’s House is an independent enterprise supported without government grants, the board is also running a campaign to raise $1 million for a three-year operational budget.
Community businesses continue to provide financial support. The Morinville Dairy Queen hosts its second annual JMMF Blizzard Day on Thursday, Feb. 28, from 10:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Patrons are invited to round up their bill to the nearest dollar in support of Jessie’s House.
