Shelters don’t typically want their locations known. Maplegate is ready to break that stigma.
On Thursday, June 9, a sign unveiling and celebration took place at the shelter.
Theresa Hiuser, the interim executive director for The Elliot Lake Women’s Group, told ElliotLakeToday that the sign has been “standing proud waiting for this unveiling.”
Hiuser says that the sign signifies “we are here and not going anywhere.”
Her team feels that it’s more beneficial for everyone in the community to know where they are.
The hope is for the community to recognize that there should be no shame for anyone who may need their services or resources.
“It’s time to bring light to the fact we are here,” Hiuser said.
For decades, many shelters have chosen to be secret entities within our communities. It’s been the “norm” to portray shame on victims of domestic violence, abuse and/or homelessness.
“We don’t want to be hidden anymore. We are here. We are loud, and we are proud!” Hiuser said.
The team at Maplegate and Larry’s Place are committed to helping people in need.
Hiuser and her team will “continue to make every effort to educate” and bring awareness to these ongoing social issues that require the use of their services.
Elliot Lake Mayor Dan Marchisella and the city councillors were invited to attend the event. Representatives from both Micheal Mantha and Carol Hughes’ offices also were in attendance.
There were presentations made to The Elliot Lake Women’s Group, thanking them for 40 years of service in our community.
A birthday dinner celebration was catered by Fireside to Go for all in attendance. Andrew Young, the Fireside restaurant owner, took the opportunity to donate all the unused food to the shelters after the event.
Hiuser says “it’s about everyone helping everyone,” and she feels “it’s just time for us all to be kind.”
The beautiful sign that now proudly stands outside the shelter was designed by Ross Reid, a family friend of Hiuser located in New Brunswick.
Reid volunteered his time to create this piece, and he was able to incorporate the Maplegate logo and the leaves by etching them on the live wood piece.
Hiuser is excited about the message this new sign brings to their property.
Her staff are proud to be helping those in need. The continued collective goal is to “support men, women and children to the best of our ability to ensure they are safe.”