Women’s Resources of Kawartha Lakes opens new second stage housing facility
The Board of Directors of Women’s Resources of Kawartha Lakes are excited to announce the opening of their second stage housing facility on Logie Street in Lindsay. The facility was officially named “Lori’s Place” in honour of Lori Watson, executive director of Women’s Resources for 29 years, helping the agency grow and build, adapting to the ever-changing needs of women fleeing abuse. An open house by invitation took place May 30, with tours offered to the many stakeholders including donors, local dignitaries, skilled tradespeople, staff, volunteers and others with a vested interest in this project.
With an initial commitment of $1.4 million from Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) and a $150,000 grant awarded in 2022 by the provincial government’s Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF), it was determined that a Capital Campaign would be required to raise the balance of funds ensuring the amount of $2.6 million needed to complete the build would be realized. Through community donations and investment income, the Board is confident that the project will be finished and ready for occupancy by July 2024. A heartfelt thank you is extended to all the generous donors. Without their help, this would not be possible.
“Our government is pleased to support incredible organizations like Women’s Resources of Kawartha Lakes through the Ontario Trillium Foundation,” said Laurie Scott, MPP for Haliburton-Kawartha Lakes-Brock. “These new improvements will help even more women and children escaping violent situations access vital services and a safe, warm, and welcoming environment”.
The new building includes six rent-geared-to-income units for women and their children to stay for up to two years and is not just an apartment, it is a program. Residents will receive counselling, education and social skills training along with a safe, secure location to live. The facility is close to public transportation, schools, churches, grocery stores and legal services. It will be a wonderful home and program for women who are rebuilding their lives after fleeing abuse.
Women who leave interpersonal violence are often thrown into a life of poverty with no immediate source of income or employment skills as they have been isolated from the workforce, forcing them to go on social assistance to survive. Living daily with fear and the trauma of being abused, their self-esteem has been eroded for years. For them to heal, a safe, warm and welcoming environment is needed. This is what we offered before and are offering again, only better. These ‘new homes’ are safe, clean and well equipped, helping women understand they are worthy of having a nice home and deserve to raise their children in an environment free from terror, fear and violence.
There is no doubt that opening this new facility is an important step to healing by learning to live lives without the brutality and chaos many women and their children have left behind. Going forward, a tremendous amount of community support will still be needed as donations and other fundraising opportunities from the community will be counted on to assist with maintenance and upkeep.
Women’s Resources is proud to unveil this wonderful facility that will provide many, many years of safety and security for women. It has been a collaborative team effort to finally get to this day. The naming of this facility will be announced at the opening ceremonies.
The Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) is an agency of the Ontario government with a mission to build healthy and vibrant communities across the province. Last year, OTF invested more than $110M into 1,044 community projects and multi-sector partnerships. Projects aim to enhance economic well-being, foster more active lifestyles, support child and youth development, provide spaces for people to come together and connect, and create a more sustainable environment. Visit otf.ca to learn more.
