The women who call the YWCA Genevra House in Sudbury home will have a much better sleep tonight, thanks to a donation from Sleep Country.
The mattress retailer recently opened shop in Sudbury, and as a new resident of the city, they are donating 20 custom mattresses, as well as pillows, protective encasements, mattress pads and sheet sets to the Genevra House, replacing many of the beds in the 32-bed facility.
According to a 2013 report from Statistics Canada, domestic violence accounts for one-quarter of all police reported violent crimes of which eight in 10 spousal violence victims are women, said a news release.
"We know women and their children are the ones most likely affected by domestic violence,” said Christine Magee, Sleep Country Canada co-founder and executive co-chair.
“On any given day in Canada, more than 3,300 women, along with their 3,000 children, are forced to sleep in an emergency shelter to escape domestic violence. Facilities like YWCA Genevra House are vital to helping women affected by domestic violence, so providing new beds was one of our priorities when we opened for business here in Sudbury. It's something we can do right away to give back to the community."
Marlene Gorman, executive director of YWCA Genevra House, said the current mattress have been there since the building was constructed 10 years ago. They are thin mattresses, and are very much in need of being replaced.
"At YWCA Genevra House, we believe that every person has the right to live in dignity, free from exploitation,” said Gorman, in a news release.
“Our programs are structured to empower women; providing support, resources and opportunities so that they may create a better future for themselves. Rest is part of the healing process, and new beds and bedding will ensure a more comfortable environment for our residents."
