Street Haven - your contributions at work

It's always affirming to know that our collective efforts in the ShareLife campaign are making an impact in the community - that's certainly the case at Street Haven at the Crossroads.

Yesterday, Gita Schwartz, the interim executive director at Street Haven, told us about the work being done by her women's shelters, residences and counselling centres. Serving homeless, abused and addicted women in the downtown core of Toronto, Street Haven  provides safety, comfort and, for some, an opportunity to turn their lives around.

Of note, Schwartz pointed out that:

• Street Haven is one of only three women's agencies in Ontario to offer addictions programs that are longer than three weeks (theirs are 6 months). ShareLife funding helps support that extended service by paying for a staff person in that program.
• ShareLife funding helps supplement the grocery budget at the agency's shelter, allowing them to buy more nutritious food for the women who turn to Street Haven for a meal.
• ShareLife funding also provides funding for recreation programs and for the flower garden that is maintained by women at The Hostel - that space offers peace and comfort for hundreds of women every year.

Street Haven does a lot more than just this, providing computer training and job readiness programs, offering supportive housing, residential care, counselling, and much more. That said, Schwartz made it clear that ShareLife's allocation makes a difference, providing the women at Street Haven with comfort, care and renewed dignity.

Thanks to all who have supported our campaign already this year...you're clearly working wonders!