Editor's Note: The Elizabeth Fry Society transition
shelter is one agency, among many, serving the homeless
population that recently lost government funding for its
services.
I am a woman who has been homeless four times
since my last birthday. Before my birthday, I never had to deal
with such tremendous loss. Once a mother of two, now
emotionally torn from the blows of society, I came to the
Elizabeth Fry Transition House for sanctuary. I had to swallow
my pride and ask for help. I've formed bonds with good strong
women during my stay here and I still have my independence and
dignity.
We all come from different lifestyles and yet
we find common ground. We are a family, we cook, clean, talk,
cry and accept the help we need. We accept responsibility for
everything pertaining to our selves and our lives.
The counsellors are excellent, truly
compassionate and love what they are doing. Without them I
probably would not be sitting here today.
We are not faceless or nameless here. This
place has become a home for me and for others.
The thought of this place closing devastates
us. The mandate at the other women's shelter says a woman has
to physically abused, and must be sexually active with her
abuser. This is certainly not the case for all women who need
shelter.
If a woman does not fit the criteria at this
shelter, and the Elizabeth Fry Transition House closes, then
where are they going to go? I am grateful for these women at
the transition house - the open door, the shoulders I've cried
on. I pray this home is able to stay open for the other women
who will need an open door, a shoulder to cry on, a warm bed,
and a dream that life can get better.
Nicole N.
Sudbury