Social workers celebrated for their charity work
Quebec City, August 3 2010--The Honourable Jim Prentice, Minister of the Environment and Minister responsible for Parks Canada, today recognized the national historic significance of the Good Shepherd Sisters of Québec, whose charity work has helped innumerable women through the years.
"Providing help that was greatly needed, the Good Shepherd Sisters of Québec have filled a gap in the system by managing a network of facilities for marginalized girls and women, which has been in service for more than 150 years," said Minister Prentice. "I am delighted that the Government of Canada has chosen to recognize the social work of the Good Shepherd Sisters of Québec throughout the years."
In the face of financial difficulties and social prejudices often associated with marginalized girls and single mothers, the Good Shepherd Sisters of Québec have devoted themselves to the protection and reintegration of women who have been robbed of their dignity. The Sisters opened their arms to these women, who often had nowhere else to go. They provided anonymous, essential help to single women and their children, often preventing infanticide. While the Sisters have focused their efforts primarily in Quebec, they have undertaken projects elsewhere in Canada and in other countries.
"The charitable work accomplished by the Good Shepherd Sisters of Quebec is remarkable," said the Honourable Josée Verner, Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs, President of the Queen's Privy Council for Canada, Minister for La Francophonie and Minister responsible for the Quebec Region. "These social workers are pioneers and thanks to today's designation, their contribution to Canadian society will be remembered by future generations."
"Our current Mission Statement reads as follows: 'With warmth and compassion, we work on behalf of women, youth, and the poorest members of society.' It is therefore a great honour to obtain recognition of the national historical importance of our congregation's social role throughout the years," said Sister Monique Massé, general secretary of the congregation.
Created in 1919, the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada advises the Minister of the Environment regarding the national historic significance of places, people and events that have marked Canada's history. Parks Canada manages a nation-wide network of national historic sites that make up the rich tapestry of Canada's cultural heritage and which offers visitors the opportunity for real and inspiring discoveries.
Information:
Media Relations
National Corporate Communications Branch
Parks Canada
819-994-3023
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Backgrounder associated with this News Release.
Good Shepherd Sisters of Québec
