The Esprit Place Family Resource Centre is re-opening on March 8 – International Women’s Day.
For the past 40 years, the centre has been providing emergency shelter and assistance for women and children in the District of Parry Sound who find themselves in crisis.
Officials say the building, originally constructed in 1985, was temporarily closed to allow for significant renovations to ensure the building remained complaint with current safety standards.
“In many cases, a woman will arrive to Esprit Place at one the lowest points in her life,” said Tammy MacKenzie, CAO of the District of Parry Sound Social Services Administration Board.
“While the primary intent for the renovations was to ensure compliance with code, safety and accessiblity requirements, this renovation also provided the opportunity to create an open concept environment with more communal living space to encourage the women and children to gather, communicate and begin to regain control of their lives.”
During the closure, residential supports were provided by the Muskoka Women’s Advocacy Group and their shelters in Muskoka.
With renovations now complete, staff at Esprit Place are looking forward to re-opening their doors to women and children in need.
In 2023, the facility provided warm beds and space for 169 women and children.
