The province has announced $260,000 for three Quinte area agencies that help women and children.
Friday morning in Prince Edward County, Bay of Quinte MPP Todd Smith (Minister for Children, Community, and Social Services), was joined by Associate Minister of Children and Women’s Issues Jill Dunlop, at Vi’s House, a women’s shelter being constructed in Picton.
Ministers Smith and Dunlop announced the home, which is in the final stage of construction, would receive $227,000. The money will be used for repairs, improvements, and programs. Money is also used for security for the facility. The home is run by Alternatives for Women.
The site was purchased by AFW from Vi (Violet) Courtney. Courtney had received much higher offers on her home, but wanted to see it go to Alternatives for Women. The location of the home is not released, to protect those staying at the shelter.
Alternatives for Women Executive Director Leah Morgan says it is wonderful to be in the home stretch for the project.
Caroline Granger is the Board Chair for Alternatives for Women. She says the completion of this project has been a priority of hers for 20 years.
Granger adds that helping women and children feel safe is actually a savings to upper tier governments in the long run.
Prince Edward County Councillor John Hirsch says this is very important for The County and for Alternatives for Women.
Hirsch added that it is unfortunate that the service is needed, but vital it is available. He adds that he hopes to see the municipality step up to the plate.
Minister Smith says when he visited the project site for the first time, he knew he wanted to help.
Associate Minister Dunlop tells Quinte News that although she wishes a facility like this does not have to exist, it is critical that staff and volunteers are able to help women and children in the community.
Dunlop finished by saying Vi’s House was one of 380 projects across Ontario, sharing $11.5 million. It is specialized to assist women and children in need. $1.7 million is specifically earmarked for women’s shelters in rural areas.
A total of $260,000 was announced in the area for repairs and upgrades for community agencies. The bulk went to Alternatives for Women’s Vi’s House, while another $27,600 is going to Kerry’s Place in Thomasburg. That will be allocated for upgrades to the water treatment system, along with new security measures. Another $5,700 went to Community Living Belleville for water filtration.
(l-r) PEC Councillor Phil St Jean, PEC Councillor John Hirsch, Associate Minister of Children and Women’s Issues (MPP) Jill Dunlop, Alternatives for Women Board Chair Caroline Granger, Minister of Children, Community, and Social Services (MPP) Todd Smith, and Alternative’s for Women Executive Director Leah Morgan at Vi’s House in Prince Edward County
