As many of you are aware we are big supporters of this important community service. Tracey has served on the Board of Directors for a number of years and is currently the Chairperson. The organization offers a variety of services to help woman and their children move beyond violence. They operate two shelters; Anselma House in Kitchener and Haven House in Cambridge plus regional outreach services for abused women and their children.

Recently Mary Zilney, the CEO, sent out a letter to supporters with some important news. This post is adapted from that letter.

"Back in early 2011, it was thought that the existing Haven House property would be appropriate for further expansion. Subsequently, a decision was made to proceed with a capital campaign to expand and renovate Haven House.  This information was disseminated back in June."

...

Since then, Mary and her team have been actively working with the architects and consultants.  As the design process unfolded, it was discovered that there were substantial challenges with the existing site, due to easements and restrictions by CP rail (which borders the property).  Further research also indicated that the population of Cambridge and North Dumfries is estimated to increase by 350,000 people over the next 18 years.  This caused the team to pause and reconsider their plan.  The new 45 bed Anselma House was completed in May 2011 with the plan to serve up to 35 women and children with the additional beds being utilized in the future as the population grew.  Much to everyone's surprise, Anselma House occupancy soared beyond that by the end of August.  This fact is significant when examining the needs throughout Waterloo Region.  It became clearly apparent that to expand the existing facility would be short sighted and would not meet the increasing needs of abused women and their children in Cambridge and North Dumfries.

As a result, a decision has been made, by the board of directors, in consultation with the building committee, to build "from the ground up" and construct a 45 bed shelter similar to the new Anselma House in Kitchener.

Currently, a search is underway for an appropriate piece of land in Cambridge.  As further details become available, updates will be provided on our website at wcswr.org.

Looks like Mary will need to bring out her pink hard hat once again...

Related Story:

. Images from our Wine Tasting Event On October 27, 2011