Legal services garner funding

By Morning Star StaffApr 15 2007 http://www.vernonmorningstar.com/

Vernonites will have easier access to the legal system. The B.C. Law Foundation has provided the Vernon Women’s Centre with $225,000 over three years to launch a legal information and advocacy program. “These services are critical for those most in need in terms of accessing information, support and assistance when needed,” said Ann Forrest, women’s centre executive director. She added that with poverty and homelessness growing in Vernon, the program will benefit those often lost in the legal system. “The community need is evident and the centre is well positioned and ready to take on the challenge.”

The program, which will start in May, will provide legal information, advocacy and train community partners and referral workers. Among the partners will be the North Okanagan Youth and Family Services Society and the John Howard Society, which will both continue to provide support for the program and work with the centre in its delivery. “The three agencies will provide service for all people in the community,” said Forrest. As part of the centre receiving funding, various community groups provided letters of support. “The success of this application depended on these solid working relationships and support,” said Juliette Cunningham, centre chairman. “This program really is the success of groups working together to achieve what was needed for the community and the hard work and dedication of the centre’s staff.”