Help Johanna & Her Family: Evicted and in Need of Support

Today, September 3rd, our dear friend Johanna Thorn and her family are facing an unimaginable situation—they have been evicted from their home. We are reaching out to you, our community, to ask for your support as they navigate this challenging time. Your help can make a real difference in their lives.

Dear cherished community,

Today, we find ourselves in a painful situation that we could never have anticipated. After nearly a decade of nurturing the land we love, cultivating a sanctuary for healing and restoration, we have been officially evicted from our cherished home, Sisters Rising Farm. We are reaching out to you, our wonderful community, in hopes of finding safety and stability for our family, our beloved animals, and the future of our farm.

Nine years ago, we, Charlene and I, answered a calling—a calling to care for this beautiful land and all the beings that reside here. It was not just a living space for us; it transformed into a passion project for environmental sustainability and animal welfare. Our farm became a second chance for many animals, a bustling Eco Bed and Breakfast, and a Wellness Sanctuary we envisioned for visitors seeking solace and healing.

Over the past four years, we worked tirelessly, believing that we would one day become the legal guardians of this sacred space. But then, in August 2023, we received devastating news: foreclosures were looming over our heads. We put our hearts and souls into crafting a business plan designed to sustain the land and our small community as we aspired to create the wellness sanctuary it truly deserved.

With each moment that passed, we felt the threat of eviction hanging over us. Despite our best efforts to secure partnerships and funding for the farm’s vision, the offer from Metro Vancouver Regional District to acquire the property came too soon and too suddenly. Now, after a granted extension of six months—until August 28th—we have no choice but to leave this place that has been our home, our safe haven.

As we navigate this tumultuous time, we also face the heartbreaking challenge of ensuring the wellbeing of our almost 91-year-old mother, our animals, and each other. The impending lambing season holds a promise of new life, yet our struggles are compounded by the loss of our main income source last August. We are overwhelmed, but we remain hopeful. We cannot pursue traditional employment due to our unwavering commitment to the farm, elder care responsibilities, and rebuilding my wellness coaching practice amidst the chaos.

**How You Can Help:**

We humbly ask for your support during this desperate time. We need to secure a safe place to stay—both for our family and our animals—cover legal fees, utilities, and basic living expenses for the next six months. Your contributions will be a lifeline, helping us to find a new home and navigate this challenging transition.

Here are ways you can make a difference:

1. **Donate to Our Fundraiser:** Every penny will go towards securing a stable environment for our family and care for our animals.

2. **Share Our Story:** Please help us spread the word. The more people who know about our situation, the better chance we have to find help.

3. **Keep Us in Your Thoughts and Prayers:** Your positive energy means everything as we navigate this journey.

Thank you for standing by us,

Johanna & Charlene