Nov 26, 2019 | Charles Annett | 511 views
Education and Helping hands
Well I'm not even sure where to start. At the start of the month we taped our sticks purple in support of ending violence against women and children. On Nov 26th our team made a trip to the Elgin woman's shelter to learn a little about what it is and how they help. When you decide as a coach to make this kind of trip you are never sure how your team will reacted. What an amazing group of girls and families. Hockey is more than just Hockey
It start's with the parent's being supportive of and idea and willing to step up with amazing donations and driving there kids around a little more. To that I say thank you. thank you. thank you. As for the our night out, we all gathered in a beautiful committee room after passing though a very secured entryway. First lesson learned, confidentiality, please tell everyone about your experience just don't tell anyone who lives here. Respect their privacy and security. Second everyone loves pizza and gathering with food it makes it easier to talk. Liz lead the conversation, First thanking us for our donation and support. Then explaining how the 3 year old building is a one of a kind place in Ontario. Built from a huge local committee financial support, building a place where not only woman can feel safe but where all are welcome even men because it is believed that education and support needs to come from everywhere if we ever want the violence to stop. Half of the building is community oriented and the other half is a safe place for woman and children from new born to 91. We learned that even as pizza is being enjoyed woman need help as someone found the courage to knock on the shelters door. Our girls listen to the amazing number of woman they help, how the shelter offers safety, counselling, education, food, shelter, transportation, not only at the main building but 3 other smaller facility's and that butterfly's sleep in refrigerators . The girls asked questions about who makes the care packages, how many rooms they have, how long people can stay. Lastly our girls got to tour the building, and with the permission of the residents got a very special opportunity to see the secure side of the building. The girls were amazed at how wonderful the building is. With many things they would like at there own home. What a wonderful experience for all. I am sure we will never forget what a little bit of purple tape started.