Not long after Diane Slaight toured the newly expanded domestic violence shelter on McLeod Road, she and her husband Greg decided to donate $1,000,000 to Women’s Place. Building on a long legacy of support, their life-changing gift toWomen’s Place will allow the agency to continue and expand critical community prevention and public education programs, helping to end the cycle of family violence in Niagara. Some of the funds will also support the construction of an on-site pet shelter, making it easier for women and their children to access shelter services.
Women’s Place board president, Teresa Quinlin-Murphy explains the impact that this unprecedented gift will have on the future of domestic violence services in South Niagara. “When we talk about Women’s Place’s goals for the future, we often talk about two things: the importance of awareness and education programming in ending domestic and dating violence for good, and how we can improve the safety of women and children experiencing abuse in Niagara. With this generous gift, Greg and Diane Slaight have provided a unique opportunity to make great strides in achieving both goals. The impact of their gift will be felt for generations to come.”
In recent years, Women’s Place has been building a strong prevention and public education program, especially during the past year thanks to a temporary grant. Funding for this important work is, however, set to run out next year. With Greg and Diane’s gift, prevention and intervention-based efforts aimed at ending gender-based violence will not only continue but expand in South Niagara.
By also dedicating a portion of their donation to the construction of an on-site pet shelter, the Slaights are also ensuring that women and children will no longer have to decide between safety for themselves or their family pets. Pets are often targeted by abusive partners and are important sources of comfort for women and their children during a very difficult time. Having to leave a beloved pet behind to seek safety is a significant barrier that can keep women from leaving a dangerous situation. By eliminating this barrier, the pet shelter will keep more women and children safe and may possibly even save lives in our community.
While most people are not in a position to make a million-dollar donation, Diane and Greg hope that they can inspire others to become monthly donors or provide other forms help to support the critical services of Women’s Place. “Throughout life we often hear the words ‘Let us know if you need anything. We’re here for you, let us help,’” explains Diane. “Sometimes we have said this to people we care about, other times they have said it to us. Right now, my husband, Greg, and I want you to know that here in our communities, there are many women and children suffering from abuse who need help. Yours and ours. That is why we chose to give to Women’s Place, a safe haven for those in jeopardy; a wonderful facility that offers shelter, counselling, legal and emotional support. After consulting with Amanda Braet, we found the Awareness and Education Out-reach Program needed additional support and they wanted to create a new, in- house Pet Shelter which now has become a reality. Today we are asking you to be there for these women and their families. Your help is so needed. Please, give now.”
For additional information about these projects and their impact on our community, please contact Amanda Braet, Director of Development and Stewardship at 905-356-3933 ext. 240 or amanda@wpsn.ca. Visit the Women’s Place website to learn more about monthly giving or for general information about Women’s Place services.
