Caring for women and children
Posted by Rita Gayle
Bert Sharpe introduced Marilyn Fields from the Salvation Army. Marilyn has been with the Salvation Army for 23 years and has demonstrated great leadership, particularly in the field of care of children and women.Marilyn indicated how nice it is to be speaking at the Rotary Club. She works in a shelter for women fleeing violence, the children are confused, however, they have counselors for the women and children. The shelter has a list of lawyers that work with them and it’s quite devastating to go to court. Last year about 350 women and children went through the shelter.
When these people come to the Salvation Army, they really need help. They come without self esteem, they might never have written a cheque, never had a bank account. Some of these children have never done any activities, i.e. gone to the zoo, Ontario Place etc. Marilyn’s dream to open up a multipurpose room where teenagers can start the healing process came through September 15/11 when it was opened.
Another dream that Marilyn has is computer training for the women. Ten lap tops were donated to them and now the women get computer lessons. All of these women learn to use the computer or enhance their computer skills. The next project is to renovate the basement and bathroom. This is a challenge for this year and next but they need to get this done. This is work that is very heavy and rewarding.
In December they had their first Christmas party and it was wonderful. The Kiwanis Club donated a van and they are very thankful for this transportation.
Marilyn thanked the Rotary for their support and for always been them for them.
Another dream that Marilyn has is computer training for the women. Ten lap tops were donated to them and now the women get computer lessons. All of these women learn to use the computer or enhance their computer skills. The next project is to renovate the basement and bathroom. This is a challenge for this year and next but they need to get this done. This is work that is very heavy and rewarding.
In December they had their first Christmas party and it was wonderful. The Kiwanis Club donated a van and they are very thankful for this transportation.
Marilyn thanked the Rotary for their support and for always been them for them.