Since 1999, “Women on the Rise” has been empowering women through workhops, support groups and more. Alexandra Chelier is the organization’s communications manager and tells CTV News that the community is relying on their services now more than ever. “We’ve seen an increase in requests for our conjugal violence support group, perinatal mental health support group for activities, for diapers, for baby formula. It’s tough right now,” says Chelier. The non-profit has challenges of its own, having to leave its building after the deep freeze in January. “We have old fashioned water pipe radiators for the heating system. The water pipes for the heating system were what started leaking,” Chelier says. They still don’t have a timeline on when the building will be repaired, but they’ve found a way to keep going. “Because of the support that we’ve had from our other partner organizations, we’ve managed to continue running our programs outside of the building.” Executive director Nadine Collins says she’s grateful for how the community has rallied behind the organization, offering up spaces where they can run their programs. “It really shows how strong we are together, and how we really are there for each other,” says Collins. That’s why they had to continue to be there for those who count on them. Peer support group facilitator, Millie Tresierra, says they serve a diverse group of women, including those “from other countries, from other cultures. Some of them are single moms, and that can be very challenging.” Two of the moms who use their services say it’s had a real impact on them. “It made me realize, what a safe space looks like,” says Amanda Benn. Melissa Cloutier agrees. “I feel like I have a community, and I have a place to fall, and knowing that you’re not alone,” she says. Chelier says they want women to know there are resources to help navigate through tough times. “It gives women the opportunity to talk about the pain that they’re going through and to not feel alone in that, but also to be silly and lighthearted,” she says. Tresierra has this message for anyone who feels alone: “All of you is welcome here. Not just the good parts, all the parts.”
