Anova has received a hearty grant from the province. It was recently awarded $83,000 through the Ontario Trillium Foundation.
A media release was issued today to announce the Capital grant. London-Fanshawe MPP Teresa Armstrong said in the release:
“Today’s recognition is about strengthening safety, dignity, and hope for women and children who turn to Anova in moments of crisis. With the Ontario Trillium Foundation’s investment in a new, upgraded security system, this shelter is now even better equipped to provide the protection and peace of mind that every person seeking refuge deserves.”
The local organization has two facilities. One on Clarke Road and another on Wellington Road. Both provide short-term and emergency spaces to those who have experienced gender-based violence.
The funds have been used for the Clarke site. The East-end space has been equipped with enhanced surveillance and strengthened access points.
“This project has allowed us to make critical updates that directly support survivors when they need us most,” said Nikki Marsh, Fund Development and Communications Manager at Anova.
Marsh, MPP Armstrong, and other members attended a virtual meeting today celebrating the occasion.
“It is always needed but has been especially needed in the last few months, in the last couple of years, where we’ve seen the integrity and the safety of our space be challenged a little bit by folks who perhaps shouldn’t be coming close to our space,” mentioned Executive Director Jessie Rodgers.
Other services offered at Anova include counselling support and income-geared rental housing.
“Funding like this gives us stability to grow, flexibility to respond to emergency needs, and confidence to innovate in ways that truly matter for survivors and their families within our communities,” concluded Marsh.
