Farm families get the chance to help build women’s shelter

Farmers who participate can harvest the acres they wish to donate as usual, but proceeds will go to the charity. The project launch was held Thursday, August 20 and so far, people are getting on board.

Nathan Philips, a Tisdale farmer, was the first to pledge a donation.

“He’s got a sign on his land saying he’s got 20 acres for one year donated to the campaign,” said Mike. “(We’re) hoping as the harvest progresses, and as people get their crop, they’ll get involved.”

The shelter is currently being built. Campaign chairperson Barbara Baxter said they’ve been lobbying with the government over the last few years to get funding for the build. The shelter proposal was pushed forward and part of the funding was granted from each level of government—municipal, provincial and federal.

Barbara said their goal is $1.25 million. So far, they have just over $400,000 for the project.

The upper level of the house has been completed but they’re still left fundraising to finish the rest.

“We have to fundraise to finish the bottom level of the house which will have counselling rooms, meeting rooms, children’s rec rooms (and a) small items storage,” said Barbara.

They’re also completing a five-car garage and large items storage outside. The bungalow of the building they’re in now will also be converted into two or three suites for long-term stay.

“We’re hoping the build is going along really fast and with donations coming in as quick as we can get them we’re hoping we can be open early in the new year of 2016,” said Barbara.

Unfortunately, the building was 80 per cent complete but was burnt down in November 2014. They were forced to start over in February 2015.

Since 1984, the organization has helped women and children dealing with domestic violence and sexual abuse. The new location will serve the north east, going as far east as Hudson Bay, as north as Nipawin, as west to St. Brieux and as south as Wadena.

“(They) could come to the women’s shelter to receive long term help with healing and transition,” explained Barbara.

Now, they’re looking for participants to make it happen.

“We just graciously accept any donation of any kind,” she said. “Every single dollar is extremely important to the build of this shelter.”

asoloducha@panow.com

On Twitter: @alex_soloducha

by Alex Soloducha

Farm families get the chance to help build women’s shelter

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