Women’s Shelter Program gives kids chance to enjoy summer

The program runs in July, and sees between 15 and 20 children participating.

Activities include cooking meals at the shelter, travelling to local parks, swimming at the Family Leisure Centre and visits to Medalta.

Mackenzie, an 11-year-old member of the program, says she enjoys being able to spend time in the community with her friends.

“It’s really fun when we go out, and after, in the vans, one of the staff workers, -we either have a driver,- they would always turn the music up, and it was like so fun,” she said.

In addition to the fun activities, the program also teaches coping skills to the children. They begin the day with journal writing to get their thoughts and feelings down on paper, and also learn tips to manage stress, practice safety planning and develop confidence.

“They’re really learning that they’re not alone, that this is happening out there, and that there are people out there and people that care,” said Barron.

“They taught me a lot more respect, and they can teach me, they taught me how to get friendships, how to be a good friend and a bad friend, and how to deal with most situations,” said Mackenzie.

She later added, “Sometimes, I go to my room, I try not to take it out on my family members or at camp, I try not to take it out on anyone. I try to get a breathing space.”

The SAFE program runs until August 23, with the shelter offering programming and outreach for children all year round. Barron says she sees a difference in the child by the time they leave the program.

“Often times, the children that come and access our programming, they’ve had to grow up real fast, and they’ve had to step into very adult roles in their lives, so it’s just great to see them being kids, running around, playing and dancing and being children,” she said.

“I don’t usually get sad or angry as much anymore, because I’m usually happy here,” said Mackenzie.

If you are in need of support, or know somebody who needs support, call the Medicine Hat Women’s Shelter Society’s 24-hour helpline at 403-529-1091.

by Charles Lefebvre

Women’s Shelter Program gives kids chance to enjoy summer

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