Photo credit: globalnews.ca
Calgary Shelter Faces Challenges After Recent Flooding
Discovery House, an emergency shelter in Calgary, is actively seeking alternative accommodations for over a dozen families escaping domestic violence following significant flooding incidents in recent weeks.
The shelter has sustained considerable damage due to bursting pipes in its ceiling, which froze and led to water cascading down to both the first and second floors of the building. Consequently, a lengthy and costly repair process will be necessary to restore drywall, flooring, ceilings, and other affected areas.
With a total of 19 living units that include three- and four-bedroom apartments, many of which are occupied by mothers and their children, the facility is now facing an urgent need for adaptable housing solutions. “We have 13 apartments that have been severely impacted, along with numerous common areas, meeting rooms, and client offices,” stated Leslie Hill, the executive director of Discovery House, while guiding Global News through the disrupted spaces.
Thus far, staff have successfully relocated six families, including 21 children, as efforts continue to identify suitable housing for other families affected by the flooding.
Hill expressed the emotional weight of the situation, revealing, “I’ve had a couple of tears. We’re incredibly invested in creating a nurturing environment for our clients, and witnessing that work dismantled is heartbreaking.”
Among the damaged areas in the shelter are the art room, 13 living units, various offices, a cultural healing room, the reception area, and laundry facilities. Many clients’ personal belongings were also ruined.
One resident, who chose to remain anonymous but is referred to as Fatima, shared her stress about the flooding and its impact on her family. “Being here felt so comfortable and welcoming. I had everything I needed, from the schools to other services. It was just right,” she said.
Fatima, who has lived in the shelter with her three children for about a month, noted that her kids thrived in the supportive environment. “My daughter struggled with school before, but since coming here, she has been doing great. The same goes for my other kids. Everything felt easy and convenient for them,” she added.
Currently, Fatima and her children are temporarily staying in a hotel while arrangements are made for them to transfer to another shelter. Reflecting on their experiences, she said, “I felt a connection in that house, and leaving it feels difficult. However, I realize that we often don’t control what happens.”
The flooding incident occurred amid ongoing renovations at Discovery House, which is over 20 years old and has been experiencing wear and tear from consistent use. “We had already been in the process of updating the building with new windows and other improvements,” Hill explained.
As structural assessments continue, the total cost of repairs remains unsettled. Hill and her team are working closely with their insurance provider and contractors to gain clarity on the expenses involved. While they hope to restore certain areas quickly for families to return, some may have to transition permanently to new accommodations due to the extent of the damage.
“For some families, transitioning out may be necessary as the repairs could take longer than anticipated,” Hill noted. “We will certainly accommodate new clients when spaces are ready.”
Community support has been instrumental during this challenging time, but Hill warns of potential unforeseen costs. Donations are welcomed through the Discovery House website to assist with recovery efforts.
Source
globalnews.ca