Arts on Main Gallery, a co-operative gallery stocked and staffed by local county artists are celebrating the season and supporting a worthwhile cause.

The gallery announced its second annual Christmas show will be taking place until Dec. 24 entitled One by One (12” by 12” pieces of art) will support Prince Edward County’s Alternatives for Women.

Participating artists are giving half the proceeds of each painting sold to the local women’s support group and shelter.

All 12” by 12” paintings will sell for $150 plus HST and the women’s shelter will receive $75 from each painting sold.

Co-operative member Terry Culbert said the membership was offered a few different options in terms of not-for-profit organizations to support through One by One but the group felt strongly about supporting Alternatives.

“They offer such an important service for women and families at risk in our community,” Culbert said.

Alternatives for Women executive director Rhano Boutilier was thrilled the local gallery had chosen to support the women and families supported by the organization this Christmas season.

“We very excited and this is the second time Arts on Main has chosen to support us,” Boutilier told the Gazette. “Its lovely to know that at this time of year there is so much support for the women that we serve.”

Boutilier said Christmastime is unfortunately a busier time of year for Alternatives.

“There is a lot more stress on moms this time of year. We see it every year, unfortunately. The stress that comes up from parenting is an escalation and we find that the holiday will serve as a reason for women to return because of that dream of having everyone together and being a family. They tend to be very vulnerable this time of year,” she said.

For more information on the local women’s shelter please visit www.alternativesforwomen.org.

For hours of operation and more information on the artists and hours of operation of the gallery, click on www.artsonmaingallery.ca.