NLHC providing $200,000 toward new crisis shelter

The Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corp. is providing $200,000 toward the construction of the new Libra House crisis shelter for women and children in Happy Valley-Goose Bay.

Tom Hedderson, minister responsible for the NLHC, participated in an official sod-turning for the new facility today.

 “Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation is proud to be a supporting partner with Libra House on this project,” said Hedderson. “One of the greatest issues facing victims of family violence is finding a safe and affordable place to live. This contribution in an investment in the community and will help Libra House to enhance the services they currently provide to women and children who find themselves in vulnerable circumstances.”

Since 1985, Libra House has provided temporary safe shelter and supports for women and children throughout Labrador who have experienced violence or abuse.  It offers 24-hour service, seven days a week, and also operates a 24-hour crisis phone line.

“As a government, we are deeply committed to preventing violence against women, children and all vulnerable populations in Newfoundland and Labrador through our Violence Prevention Initiative,” said Charlene Johnson, minister Responsible for the status of women and lead minister for the province’s Violence Prevention Initiative. “All women and children deserve to live in safe homes and communities without fear of violence. I applaud Libra House for the important work they do to support women and children so that they may live free from violence and abuse,” Johnson added.

 Lake Melville MHA Keith Russell said this new contribution is a “tremendous asset to our community,”

Russell said the staff of this facility have been providing a high level of service for many years. “ I applaud the efforts of Libra House in this new endeavour,” Russell said.

NLHC is a partner of the provincial government’s $12 million Violence Prevention Initiative.

Since 1991, NLHC has  offered alternative housing for victims of family violence and has helped more than 1,500 families throughout the province regain control and rebuild their lives.

 “The staff and board of Libra House are extremely excited about this new project,” said Libra House executive director Janet O’Donnell. “It will provide us with a space that is secure and accessible for women and their children who are seeking safe refuge from relationship violence. We are grateful to NLHC for their ongoing support over the years and for their support of this project in particular.”

A Social Housing Plan for Newfoundland and Labrador – Secure Foundations, released by the Provincial Government in August 2009, outlines a 10-year plan for social housing, aimed at improving the housing circumstances of low-income households and helping create healthier communities.