FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 11, 2006
AMHERST, NOVA SCOTIA — Autumn House, a Transition House for Abused Women and their children has received funding of $130,680 from the Government of Canada's National Homelessness Initiative. Operated by the Cumberland County Transition House Association, Autumn House will undergo much-needed renovations and repairs to its facilities.
The announcement was made by Bill Casey, Member of Parliament for Cumberland-Colchester-Musquodoboit Valley, on behalf of the Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Social Development.
"The contributions made by Autumn House to the local community here in Cumberland County over the last 15 years have been considerable. In my experience, no other local organization has provided more support to those victims of abuse who have no other recourse, and are at serious risk of homelessness," said Mr. Casey. "Canada's new government is proud to be a partner with Autumn House, ensuring that this essential service is maintained with dignity for years to come"
"We are so pleased to have our house improved in this way," remarked Agnes Douglass, Executive Director of Autumn House. "For women and children fleeing domestic violence, coming to a house that is in good repair and whole is so very important. The staff and board of directors of Autumn House welcome this wonderful change to our shelter!"
Autumn House provides nine beds for emergency shelter, allowing clients to stay for up to six weeks until alternate housing can be arranged. Since its inception in 1990, it has provided temporary shelter for 852 women and 754 children, which equates to 20,439 person nights. In addition, it has taken a proactive role in dealing with violence through its counselling, education and prevention programs on domestic abuse.
As a result of this project, the contract was tendered and construction is now proceeding with renovations and repairs to this facility's 26 rooms, stairways, hallways, windows, roof, ramp and storage barn. This maintenance will ensure that the services of Autumn House continue in a safe and secure environment.
The Government of Canada's NHI was launched in December 1999 to support communities' efforts to help Canadians out of homelessness. Since then, the NHI has contributed over $14 million to alleviate homelessness in Nova Scotia alone.
For further information (media only):
Judy Williston, Manager
Amherst Service Canada Centre
26-28 Prince Arthur St
Amherst, N.S. B4H 1V6
(902) 661-6605
Alicia Nolan, Homelessness Coordinator
Service Canada, Nova Scotia Region
99 Wyse Road, P.O. Box 1350
Dartmouth, N.S. B2Y 4B9
(902) 426-1534
Veronica Leonard, Communications Officer
Service Canada, Nova Scotia Region
99 Wyse Road, P.O. Box 1350
Dartmouth, N.S.
B2Y 4B9
Phone (902) 426-4826
