Lisa Slaney is actively involved in managing a shelter on the Burin Peninsula that offers support to women and children escaping abusive environments.
However, she is increasingly preoccupied with securing adequate funding to sustain operations at Grace Sparkes House in Marystown.
In an interview with CBC News, Slaney highlighted the long-standing issue of underfunding across all shelters in the province.
She expressed frustration over the challenges faced in obtaining financial support from the government, citing an instance where unionized workers negotiate with the province rather than directly with the shelter.
While acknowledging salary and benefits increases granted by the government, Slaney emphasized the lack of corresponding funding to cover these additional expenses for shelters.
Grace Sparkes House has experienced payroll difficulties this year, resorting to emergency funding to manage operational disruptions.
The financial strain has forced tough decisions, with Slaney revealing concerns about potential service cutbacks.
Shelter operators, after years of private advocacy efforts, are publicly appealing for government assistance to address financial challenges.
Similar concerns were echoed in Happy Valley-Goose Bay, where Alicia Neville, the executive director of Libra House, emphasized inadequate funding from the province for transition houses.
Neville highlighted the prolonged nature of this issue despite ongoing communication with relevant authorities.
Operational costs are escalating, but provincial contributions are falling short, placing additional strain on shelters like Libra House.
Neville stressed the urgency for increased support from the province to sustain critical services for vulnerable individuals.
NLHC Allocates $1M to Address Funding Shortfalls
Operational funding for shelters is overseen by the Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation (NLHC).
NLHC disclosed providing $9.2 million in funding last year and maintained this amount for the current fiscal year.
Acknowledging deficits faced by some transition houses, NLHC stated providing over $1 million in the past three years to address financial gaps.
Historical data indicates that operational funding for shelters was $8.8 million five years ago, with minimal adjustments since 2020.
While provincial government contributions have marginally increased over five years, the rise falls short compared to inflation rates.
‘Urgent Action Needed’
The Transition House Association of Newfoundland and Labrador emphasized the urgent need for increased operational funding to align with negotiated staff wages.
Dan Meades, the provincial coordinator, highlighted the dilemma faced by several transition houses this year, urging the government to address the funding gap promptly.
Meades stressed the critical importance of sustainable funding to ensure the continued operation of shelters for individuals seeking refuge from violence.
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