More women with young children depending on women’s shelters, putting strain on resources
Women’s shelters across the city say more women are seeking refuge with young children in tow, putting a strain on resources.
Nellie’s, a shelter in Toronto’s east end, says 14 of their 36 beds are currently occupied by children, and the majority of those are toddlers.
Ingrid Graham, the shelter’s manager of development, says diapers are so in demand, the cost is coming out of their already-stretched food budget.
“The more babies, the more money we’re putting towards buying diapers, baby formula and baby wipes,” Graham said. “All the help we can get can help us stretch our budget a little further.”
The province told CityNews it’s committed to investing in Violence Against Women (VAW) agencies.
“In 2016-17, the Ministry of Community and Social Services (MCSS) invested $148 million in Violence Against Women services, which is a 54 per cent increase since 2003, at this time, approximately 10,900 women and 6,700 children were served at VAW shelters,” a government spokesperson said in an email.
“In 2015-2016, we invested $147M in VAW services, and at this time, approximately 10,770 women and 6,920 children were served at VAW shelters.
“The ministry funds more than 2,000 beds dedicated for use by women and their children.”
“No woman who is in crisis and needs shelter is turned away – a bed will be found for her and her children.”
Full Story Here http://www.bttoronto.ca/2017/08/23/more-women-with-young-children-depending-on-womens-shelters-putting-strain-on-resources/
URGENTLY NEED
With the closing of one of Toronto’s largest Women’s Shelters for renovations, we have taken in extra families and now we need a bit of help keeping up with diapers for 14 toddlers. We are looking for donations of wipes & diapers size 5 & 6. If you can help, drop off is at our office at 754 Queen St E, Monday – Friday, 9-5. If you prefer to shop online, WalMart delivers free over $25 or you can donate online and put “diapers” in the message section
For all of you who have already responded by dropping off, donating & shopping online, having diaper drives, sharing and re-tweeting on Twitter and Facebook, Thank you so much! These toddlers will be with us for awhile, so please keep up the good work!
