New women’s shelter approved for Cambridge
Posted Apr 24, 2014 05:37:31 AM.
This article is more than 5 years old.
A controversial proposal to build a new shelter for women and children in Cambridge has received the okay.
A city committee has approved a land severance for a new, larger Haven House on Acorn Way.
Many residents in that area are opposed to the location, arguing it could put children in harm’s way, since it will be built near two schools: Christ the King Catholic Elementary School and Elgin Street Public School. They also cite a possible increase in crime, and a reduction in property values as main concerns.
Supporters of the project maintain a new shelter, which would replace the current overcrowded facility, would not pose a risk to the community.
“It’s so disappointing to think that we’re in 2014, and that we still have attitudes about violence against women to this degree” says Mary Zilney, CEO of the Women’s Crisis Services of Waterloo Region. “Instead of the community embracing and assisting to eradicate violence.”
“The neighbours are very open in saying ‘we think you do great work’, ‘we think that you need a new facility’, ‘there’s no question, you’re out of room'” adds Zilney. “However, then there’s the ‘But, not in my backyard.”‘
Neighbours however are not giving up and plan to appeal the decision and have three weeks to do so.
The project is valued at $8.4-million and would see the construction of a 45-bed shelter.
