About The Denise House
At the beginning of the 1980's, needs were identified in the Durham Region for specialized services for abused women and their children. Community members formed the Women's Hostel Committee who in turn applied for a grant from the Federal Government. Funding was received for the research required for a needs assessment, completed in February 1982. A strong need was identified for a facility for victims of violence against women; providing such services as safe shelter, counselling, and access to community resources and services.
Once the needs study was completed funding was acquired from the Provincial Government and the local community raised a total of $20,000. The original committee was incorporated on August 3, 1983 as Sedna Women's Shelter & Support Services Inc. and the first Board of Directors was elected. In August of 1984, the original shelter of ten beds was opened on Division Street in Oshawa and was named Auberge. Funding was provided in part by the Ministry of Community & Social Services, the Region of Durham, local charitable organizations, and private donations.
Our original shelter operated at full capacity from the beginning and a consistent and lengthy waiting list indicated greater needs in the community. A new building was purchased and renovated with assistance from the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation. The new shelter offered fifteen beds for women and children, and opened its doors in May of 1986.
In 1988, the tragic reality of our work became apparent following the murder of an ex-resident by the name of Denise Penny. We desired to recognize the life of a woman who had made a strong and lasting impact on our lives and consequently the shelter was renamed The Denise House. Possessing a strong will to build a new life, free from violence, Denise exemplifies our hopes for all women. The Denise House establishes a permanent memorial to the life and friendship of Denise Penny.
On July 25, 1991, The Denise House officially opened an expansion to our facility with the financial support of the Ministry of the Community and Social Services, Ministry of Housing, the Region of Durham, local charitable organizations and generous community donations. The shelter can now accommodate twenty-seven women and children and provide safety and resources for the families who reside with us. All of our programs have grown in recognition of the crucial ongoing needs expressed by previous residents and by women and children in the community who choose not to reside at the shelter
The Denise House has gained recognition as a valued service and support network for women...women no longer silenced by the violence in their lives. More and more women - from all walks of life - are turning to the shelter for safe accommodations, supportive counselling and information resources. The ongoing requests for speaking engagements and information suggests that community members recognize the need to commit themselves to living lives that tolerate NO violence. This is our role...everyone's role. Through our service we maintain our original version of enabling women to create and nurture their lives free from violence.
To learn more about The Denise House click here.
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