Donor Spotlight

Homelessness and environmental sustainability are connected in a very tangible way—that’s something that Bizz Killigan, owner of the Green Thimble understands very well.

Bizz grew up with a love of nature and a habit of saving small treasures others might see as waste. Though she was always crafty, it wasn’t until her mid-20s that she began sewing, starting with quilting.

“I picked up quilting at first, because I liked the idea that it was taking the scraps and making something beautiful and functional from them,” she says.

That mindset has shaped her work ever since. Bizz went on to learn sewing machine repair and maintenance, driven by a belief that fixing and reusing what we already have is key to reducing the consumption of resources.

The Green Thimble is rooted in low-waste, eco-friendly values—principles that align closely with Our Place’s work to increase accessibility and reduce waste in our community. Less waste means more access for everyone.

Since opening her shop, Bizz has been a dedicated supporter of Our Place. She donates 10% of her profits from sewing machine sales and recently hosted an extremely successful fabric swap and fundraising event, with a portion of the proceeds also supporting Our Place programs.

She chose Our Place because she sees the difference we make together every day and feels closely connected to that impact right here in Victoria. Her support is never just a number—she’s part of a community where she is recognized, valued, and makes a real difference.

“If you have extra to give, spread it around,” she says. “There’s need, and enough for everyone.”