Save Nelson House

On May 25th, the Board of Directors of Nelson House temporarily closed this shelter in Ottawa for women and children fleeing domestic violence. On June 4th they announced that they would be recommending that the shelter be closed permanently at a special membership meeting scheduled for June 14th.

The Board has refused to say why Nelson House must close. They have refused all efforts to discuss the issues with the staff or the community.

Nelson House provides shelter for 15 women and children. Just before it closed it was nearly at capacity. It also provides jobs for 25 full-time, part-time and casual shelter staff.

The Board of Nelson House seems determined to close Nelson House without looking at alternatives.

For example, the Bylaws of Nelson House require 20 days notice of a special membership meeting. Nelson House gave 7 days notice.

Concerned members of the community have requested membership in Nelson House in order to get the facts and to help keep it open. The Board is refusing to allow these citizens membership or voice at the membership meeting even though the bylaws allow it.

The Province of Ontario funds Nelson House. The Ministry of Community and Social Services could step in and save this valuable service. So far they have remained silent.

John Milloy, the Minister of Community and Social Services and our provincial MPP’s need to be told that the community supports the continued operation of Nelson House. Tell our leaders to temporarily take over the operation of Nelson House to give time to determine a new board of directors is available to operate the shelter.

The Board of Directors of Nelson House also needs to be told that there is strong community support for Nelson House.

Women in Ottawa and Eastern Ontario need Nelson House. Show your support.