Holly House Closure Imminent - Member's Statement
MS. CLAUDIA CHENDER « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today on a week where we recognize women to ask for assistance with and to celebrate the vision of the Elizabeth Fry Society of Mainland Nova Scotia, a community where women and girls are not imprisoned, and where the root causes of criminalization, namely trauma, are addressed.
One undeniable risk factor for women in the justice system is a lack of affordable, safe, and stable housing. Holly House is an Elizabeth Fry Society transitional housing facility in Dartmouth South for women exiting prison and jail. The only facility of its kind in the province, it provides up to eight women with affordable housing, on-site comprehensive reintegrating programming and support, and coordination for long-term housing options. Many of these residents struggle with addictions, mental health, and trauma and these struggles can be triggered at night or on weekends.
The Elizabeth Fry Society, despite no government funding for staff for the operations of the house, has recognized this need and added staff. Unfortunately, funded with only a single office space, and a meagre housing allowance of its tenants, Holly House cannot afford to keep this house open for women any longer. Please join me in requesting the minister to consider directing a small amount of funds required to keep this vital service in our community.
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