Haven House opens its doors to Waterloo Region
Posted Sep 8, 2016 10:27:26 PM.
This article is more than 5 years old.
After five years of construction the new $9.4 million project is finally ready for local women and children.
The new space on Acorn Way in Cambridge includes 45 beds, and offers a safe home-like atmosphere for people looking to escape domestic abuse.
Mary Zilney CEO of Women’s Crisis Services of Waterloo Region says women and children will begin moving in next week.
“It’s bitter sweet. It’s a wonderful facility, but why are we building bigger shelters? It just speaks to the issue of violence against women in Waterloo Region, and the fact that it certainly isn’t decreasing.”
She says the new location was desperately needed after the first Haven House location (on Concession Road) dealt with overcrowding issues.
“This building was a necessity.” Zilney says “right now these women that are moving over are sharing bedrooms, and bathrooms, and eating in shifts. We had outgrown the facility many years ago.”
However, despite the excitement of completing the project, they are still dealing with a project shortfall of around $2 million.
“What we don’t have raised by the end of September, will be turned into a mortgage. So we’re still asking people for donations” says Zilney.
The new building is over 32,000 square feet and features bedrooms with desks, private bathrooms, and large closest’s.
It also includes a state-of-the-art kitchen, a separate industrial kitchen, a large common area, multiple meeting rooms, and a outdoor play area.
Click here for more information about Women’s Crisis Services of Waterloo Region.
