By RICHARD ROLKE Morning Star StaffSep 06 2006 http://www.vernonmorningstar.com/The Vernon Women’s Centre has avoided closure for another few months, but that possibility still exists. It was anticipated a funding shortfall would force the centre to close its doors Sept. 15, but some interim financing will allow the drop-in services to remain until Dec. 20. But a lack of money means closure could ultimately occur. “We’re still looking for a long-term solution,” said Anne Foss, Vernon Women’s Centre board chair. “The board and the employees are working hard to find funding sources.” Money woes began for the non-profit organization four years ago when the provincial government eliminated core funding for women’s centres across B.C. For the Vernon centre, that cut $45,000 a year from its budget. Both the provincial and federal governments are being lobbied and while some minor assistance is possible, Foss isn’t counting on a return to guaranteed core funding. “I don’t expect this government to fund political action. They don’t like opposition,” she said. The cutbacks have led the centre to refocus its activities. Less political activism is done now, and there’s more attention spent on direct services such as the laundry and shower service for women who don’t have access to hot water. One relationship that has improved is with the City of Vernon. While the city and the centre clashed in past, council provided the centre with some emergency support this year. “They’ve certainly had some empathy which they haven’t had in past,” said Foss. With a number of women struggling with high housing costs or living on the street, Foss says the Women’s Centre is the only place for many of them to turn. “Women feel safe there. They can support each other and many have been able to find employment or housing.” Foss worries that closure will leave some women unable to access necessary services and that pressure will be placed on other social agencies.
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