To register or for more informationcontact Erika at 905-529-5209 x 223 or email zarate@stjosephwomen.on.caor talk to your OW/ODSP Case Worker

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Women in Hamilton, Raising our Voices.Issue 8 • November & December 2010 • Published by the Immigrant Women’s Centre

We are all a reflection of the world in which we grow up. If children are raised in a safe, loving and predictable world with opportunities for growth, they can grow to be self-regulating, compassionate and a productive member of a family, community, and society. There are children, however, that grow up in an unpredictable world because they are exposed to woman abuse. We often use the term “child witness” to describe these children; a passive bystander to family violence. But, it’s more than witnessing or seeing their mother assaulted or put down. Children are part of the household before the violence takes place and in the aftermath of violence. They see it, hear it and feel it. The morning after a violent episode, these children may be sitting in a

classroom trying their best to learn. This month, the Woman Abuse

Working Group is focusing their November campaign on children trying to learn in the face of violence. Information kits have been created for

teachers and early childhood educators to help raise

awareness around this important issue. It is

estimated that up to six children in each classroom have witnessed family violence.

It is only in recent years that

we are beginning to understand the

complexities of the effects of exposure to

woman abuse on children. Growing up in an abusive

home can seriously jeopardize the developmental progress and ability of children and the effect could contribute greatly to a cycle of violence and

adversity. Children are often clear about the domestic violence that is taking place in the home; other children minimize the violence while some children deny it.

Exposure to violence at any age can lead to aggressive behavior, diminished academic performance and a decrease in social skills. Young children learn social roles by imitating what they see and hear. If children see that physical force is part of their parents’ relationship, they may also imitate this behavior. In violent homes, children learn that aggression is an acceptable way to relieve stress and yelling and threatening another family member is a way of communicating. Children may learn that it is normal to use force to get one’s way. Some children find it difficult to stay “present” in the classroom long enough to learn. A teacher would see the resulting behavior (daydreaming, looking bored, fighting, and disobedience) but without understanding the impact of violence would be at a disadvantage when teaching that child.

- continued on page 11 -

Effects of witnessing abuse last a lifetimeValerie Sadler, Director of Women’s Services - Inasmuch House, Mission Services of Hamilton

Every Friday night, we waited to see how our Dad would come home. Would he be drunk? Would he be nasty?

Once in a while pizza, pop and candy were the theme for the night. But that was not normal reality. It was totally opposite. Yelling, threatening to beat us, beating, manipulation (to con him into taking off his work boots), those evil angry eyes and that terrorizing monster. Once I wet my pants I was so scared.

My brothers and sisters spent many hours watching out the windows at every car that went near our house in case it was him and we needed to go to our rooms or hide out from him. He would spend hours lecturing, yelling and terrifying us. Sometimes, I stayed awake in my bed until I knew my Mom was safe and he was passed out. She never knew I did this. She thought she had protected us from his tyrant ranting and beatings of her. She cried when I told her later in life. She thought we were spared from the worst because we were sleeping.

-continued on page 9 -

Reflecting on my childhood

“Growing up in an abusive home can seriously jeopardize the developmental progress and ability of children, and the effect could

contribute greatly to a cycle of violence and adversity.”Jaqueline S. shares her story of growing up with an abusive father.

"Sometimes, I stayed awake in my bed until I knew my Mom was safe and he was passed out."

TBTN RecapStory and photos

from this years rally page 5

Family Court The system, where to

start and who can helppage 7

Survivors’ StoriesHear from women who

survived abusepage 4

Sisters in SpiritCampaign to raise awareness

of missing and murdered Aboriginal women

page 8

November is:

It is very important to speak with a family law lawyer in order to know about your legal rights. If you have children one of the most important things to do after leaving your spouse with your children is to apply to the Family Court for custody of your children. This is important because in Ontario both the parents have legal custody of their children. If you are removing children from your spouse’s custody, a temporary custody order is required. This is one of the first steps to take.

Custody refers to the right and responsibility of a parent to make major decisions for his or her child. Major decisions include those concerning education, religion and non-emergency health care.

You can claim custody of your children under the Divorce Act if you are married and under the Children’s Law Reform Act, if you are in a common-law relationship. The Family Courts decide custody claims on the basis of what is in the

best interest of the children.The parental conduct is a relevant

consideration in determining the issue of custody if it is indicative of the parent’s ability to care appropriately for that child.

The sub-section 24(4) of the Children’s Law Reform Act addresses the issue of violence and provides that “in assessing a person’s ability to act as a parent, the Court shall consider whether the person has at any time committed violence against his or her spouse”. Hence it becomes really difficult for an abusive partner to get custody of his or her children and the domestic abuse victim stands a very good chance of getting custody of his or her children.

A person can claim custody of their children by filing an Application in the Family Court located in the municipality in which their children are residing. You can file a motion to claim temporary custody of your children.

In cases of domestic abuse where

you are leaving an abusive partner you can file an emergency motion with the Application against your spouse to claim temporary custody of your children.

The Family Court in Hamilton is located at: 55 Main Street West, Hamilton, Ontario L8P 1H4.

- Deepa Dayal practices law in Ham-ilton and specializes in the areas of civil, family, immigration, employment and administrative law. She can be reached at Deepa Dayal Law Office, Suite No. 107A, 100 Main Street East. Contact her by phone at 905-523-7171 or e-mail at dayal@deepalaw.com.

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Letter from the Editors

Please send feedback and submissions to: ewebb@stjosephwomen.on.ca

or call Elizabeth at 905-529-5209 x228

Local lawyer Deepa Dayal answers questions from readers about issues important to women and immigrants.

Child custody

What is custody and what are my rights?

Legal Q & A With Deepa Dayal

Q:

November is a busy time for the Woman Abuse Working Group (WAWG). Using our diverse and collective voice we plan campaigns that will educate the public and raise awareness around the issues of woman abuse. This year we are expanding our “It’s Not Just About Her” campaign to focus on children who are living in family violence and how this impacts their ability to learn and succeed at school. Teacher kits are being distributed across Hamilton with the hope that our educators will have a bet-ter understanding of this huge social issue called woman abuse.

Woman abuse is a systemic problem and all of the work that we do is to help build social intolerance toward this type of vio-lence. Here is the current situation:• Half of Canadian women have experi-

enced at least one incident of physical or sexual violence since the age of 16

• Every week in Canada one to two wom-en are murdered by a current or former partner

• Every minute of every day, a Canadian woman or child is being sexually as-saulted

• Violence against women occurs across all ethnic, racial, religious, age, social and economic groups. Some women are more likely to experience violence in-cluding women with disabilities, young women and Aboriginal women.We all have a personal stake in woman

abuse because it’s not just about her. It’s about all of us. And it’s “all of us” who need to work together to eliminate violence against women. So, get involved. Do your part. Make a difference.

- Valerie Sadler, Chair, Woman Abuse Working Group

----------In getting involved, in doing our part,

and in making a difference as Valerie sug-gests, here are some practical things we can do:

Be vigilant. Stay alert to the signs of abuse and violence done to ourselves, our daughters and our friends and denounce it by its name, violence against women.

Take action. Join in collective action to change the conditions that foster violence against women in Canada and around the world. One primary action is to VOTE and demand necessary changes in the legisla-tion to protect women. Why isn’t the safety of Canadian women a national priority? Next time you shake the hand of a politi-cian, ask that question.

Get the facts. Read articles by WAWG members that deal with key issues: the ef-fects of witnessing violence, navigating the legal system, what it means to be a survi-vor, and more. By reading the Women’s Press cover to cover you can become well-prepared with the information to get in-volved and participate, alongside WAWG, in an everyday campaign of woman abuse prevention.

- Ines Rios Executive Director Immigrant Women’s Centre

Women in Hamilton, Raising our Voices.

Issue 8 • Nov. & Dec. 2010 • p.2

Second Stage housing was developed to meet the needs of women and children who have survived abuse. Second Stage offers a supportive environment for women, with or without children, who are leaving, or have recently left, an abusive relationship.

Most often women will move into second stage housing after spending up to six weeks in a crisis shelter. After the initial crisis period which often follows the decision to leave, a woman and her children

may still require encouragement, personal support, counselling, life skills training and assistance to work towards living independently.

In Hamilton, there are three organizations that offer second stage programs – Good Shepherd Outreach Services, Native Women's Centre and Phoenix Place. Each offers apartments or townhouse units with one, two or three bedrooms. Most units are furnished and the length of stay depends on the needs of the woman, but could be up to one year.

In safe housing, women and their children can plan their future in a safe, non-violent environment. Many services are offered within second stage programs that assist with planning for their future.

Within second stage organizations, there are programs such as individual counselling, advocacy, group counselling, support, goal setting, education, networking, and parental support. Staff can assist women in connecting with the kinds of supports and services required to establish safe, meaningful lives in the community.

The transition period offered by second stage allows families to heal physically and emotionally to rebuild a social and community network in order to become independent and regain balance in their lives.

Second Stage Housing supports safe transition for womenBy Carol Wiggins, CEO, Phoenix Place

LINC 5+Discussion: What do you think about sub-section 24(4) of the Children’s Law Reform act?

1. What does custody mean?

2. Where do you go to file an application for custody?

LINC 3+Discussion: What barriers do you think women face in building safe and meaningful lives after leaving an abusive relationship?

1. Which three organizations in Hamilton offer second stage programs?

2. What are 4 kinds of support women receive from second stage organizations?

Women in Hamilton, Raising our Voices.

Issue 8 • Nov. & Dec. 2010 • p.3

Woman Abuse Awareness Month events - November 2010Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday

November 1 2Women’s Voices - Healthy Relationships: What I deserve1 - 3 pm @ SACHA

3Lunch n Learn: Sex Work in Hamilton 11:30 -1:00 @Good Shepherd Family Centre----------------------------------------Women’s Weekly: Police Response. 5:30 - 7:30 pmCall Catholic Family Services 905-527-3823 for more info.

4Launch Event Woman Abuse Awareness Month Launch 9:30 am @ St. David’s School

5

8 9Women’s Voices - Sexuality: Taking back my body1 - 3 pm @ SACHA

10Women’s Weekly: Children Exposed to Violence5:30 - 7:30 pmCall Catholic Family Services 905-527-3823 for more info.

11 12Legal Lunch n Learn: Restraining Orders, Peace Bonds, etc 1:00 - 2:30 pm @ Jared’s Place

15 16Women’s Voices - Hope & Healing: Taking back my life 1 - 3 pm @ SACHA

17Women’s Weekly: Women Supporting Women5:30 - 7:30 pmCall Catholic Family Services 905-527-3823 for more info.

18 19Legal Lunch n Learn: Child Protection & Working with CAS 1:00 - 2:30 pm @ Jared’s Place

22 23 24Women’s Weekly: Psychological Abuse & Mind Games5:30 - 7:30 pmCall Catholic Family Services 905-527-3823 for more info.

25International Day to End Violence Against Women---------------------------------------Zonta Club Women leading change celebration. 5:30 - 6:30 pm @ Interval House. RSVP.

26Legal Lunch n Learn: Immigration in Family & Criminal Court 1:00 - 2:30 pm @ Jared’s Place

29 30 December 1Women’s Weekly: Woman Abuse and the Media5:30 - 7:30 pmCall Catholic Family Services 905-527-3823 for more info.

2 3Legal Lunch n Learn: Disclosure of Records1:00 - 2:30 pm Jared’s Place

6Memorial for the Montreal Massacre 6-8 pm @ Workers Arts & Heritage Centre

7 8 9 10

Woman Abuse Working GroupThe Woman Abuse Working Group ia a coalition of over 20 community agencies, coordinating services to eradicate violence against women and children.

Vision: To live in communities without violence.Mission: Communities without violence, abuse, oppression, and exploitation of women (and their children). Guided by an anti-racist, anti-oppression feminist framework, we support efforts through advocacy, education and leadership to engage the community to end violence against women (and their children) by working to remove systemic barriers that perpetuate this violenceValue Statements:• It is a basic human right for all

individuals to live free of violence, oppression or exploitation

• Violence against women in its many forms stems from a global and cultural context of discrimination against women and is supported by the economic, social and political structures of society

• Many forms of abuse are illegal and all forms are morally offensive demanding that the offender, not victims be held responsible for their behaviour

• Violence against women has a destructive, long lasting impact on women, her children and family relationships, as well as the

community as a whole• There is a profoundly negative

impact on children who are exposed to woman abuse

• Given that women who have experienced violence may display a variety of behaviours that may not be understood or considered appropriate, it is essential that these behaviours can be coping strategies in reaction to violence which the woman incorporates as necessary for survival.

• Women have the right to services that are sensitive and appropriate and that meet their needs, regardless of social, cultural, racial, physical, religious, sexual orientation or economic factors

• All members of WAWG, consumer and the general public should be treated with respect, compassion, sensitivity and consideration for personhood

WAWG Members:The AIDS Network

Catholic Family Services

Catholic Children’s Aid Society of Hamilton

Children’s Aid Society

The Elizabeth Fry Society Hamilton Branch

Good Shepherd Women’s Services

Hamilton Regional Indian Centre

Hamilton Urban Core

Immigrant Women’s Centre

Mission Services of Hamilton - Inasmuch House

Interval House of Hamilton

Native Women’s Centre

Phoenix Place

SACHA - Sexual Assault Centre (Hamilton & Area)

Sexual Assault Domestic Violence Care Centre

Settlement and Integration Services Organization (SISO)

Women’s Centre of Hamilton

Victim Witness Assistance Program

YWCA Hamilton Learn more at www.wawg.ca.

WAWG members Ruth Wells (left) of the Ministry of Community and Social Services and Carol Wiggins of Pheonix Place attend the monthly meeting October 14th at Good Shepherd Family Centre.

Women in Hamilton, Raising our Voices.

Issue 8 • Nov. & Dec. 2010 • p.4

I began my journey in two different cities. Finding points of access was very difficult. I'm not sure if everyone has the same difficulty but I am sure that we all have a similar story. I think one of the hardest things for me was thinking that I found help and then being told that there was a six month wait.

Another problem is being told to call a crisis line. I am still, two years later afraid to call a crisis line. Everything is still new. I think my biggest advice is that if everyone could slow down for me and tell me how things work that would be so helpful. You know, like when you go to access to housing...how does that work? Also when the police come they want to put you in touch with Victim Services. I always said no, I didn’t understand what they could do.

I remember calling back each agency and having to ask questions. I would call over and over asking different questions. Eventually I had a satisfactory understanding. But each call was scary. I think a really basic web site or work book would be helpful.

I am a smart and educated woman but I am finding the system challenging. I want to add that now that I am connected to a couple of key agencies in Hamilton I feel like I have allies to help me through. That is a good feeling. Education is one of the things that will prove to be valuable! I hope to be able to be there for others who have felt the same!

I can best describe my journey from abuse as that of being put in a row boat on a very rocky sea without a paddle. I felt lost, frightened, misunderstood and totally helpless. Sometimes, it seemed best to just sit in that boat and not to bother to call out for help anymore. But my family doctor and chiropractor heard my call and sent me to Catholic Family Services (CFS).

CFS provided me not just with a paddle but a team of people who have jumped in that boat with me. Sometimes, they’ve rowed while I rested when I couldn’t keep going. They’ve inspired and motivated me to pick up my paddle and keep going.

They sent me to Phoenix Place where I met a woman who also jumped in my boat and she held the compass and map that I needed to navigate my way through the legal system. They have all equipped me to be helpful to my sisters who are now riding the same boat on the same seas that I have survived with their courageous help.

There are many agencies that are there to help you through your storm. You are not alone.

From Hopeless to Helpful: Points of AccessBy Members of The Survivors Advisory Group

The Survivors Advisory Group is a group of women who have survived their journey through domestic abuse. Read here about two women who hope their stories will help others.

“I am a smart and educated woman but I am finding the system

challenging.”

LINC 4+

1. In the first woman’s story, what did she identify as one of the hardest things?

2. In the second story, what two agencies did the woman ac-cess for support?

Discussion: What kind of feelings does the second woman’s metaphor of the boat evoke for you?

Need Support?Here's who to call:Inasmuch House: SUPPORT LINE: 905-529-8600 Business Line: 905-529-8149

Interval House: SUPPORT LINE: 905-387-8881Business Line: 905-387-9959

Martha House: SUPPORT LINE: 905-523-6277Business Line: 905-523-8895

Mary’s Place: 905-540-8000

Native Women's Centre: 905-522-1501 Phoenix Place: 905-527-2238

Sexual Assault Centre (SACHA)24-hour SUPPORT LINE: 905-525-4162

Sexual Assault Domestic Violence Care Centre (McMaster University)905-521-2100

“It means to be free - not to physically or mentally emotionally from a man anymore.” -Wanda

TBTN 2010 RECAP

Women in Hamilton, Raising our Voices.

Issue 8 • Nov. & Dec. 2010 • p.5

The twenty-ninth annual Take Back the Night celebration was a huge success.

Despite heavy rain and a call for thunder storms in the afternoon, almost four hundred women gathered at Hamilton City Hall on September 16, 2010, to celebrate women’s strength and to speak out against gendered violence in our community.

Take Back the Night is an annual event organized by SACHA – the Sexual Assault Centre (Hamilton & Area) - to give women an opportunity to speak out against the violence that is all too common in women’s lives.

As the clouds broke up and the rain slowed to a mist, twenty-five community agencies set up information tables, engaging women in conversation while other women and children made signs with amazing messages and decorated noisemakers.

As in years past, SACHA awarded prizes. The Hamilton-Wentworth AIDS Network won for most inclusive display while first time winner, Womankind Addiction Services, took home the award for most women from an organization. The award for best sign was given to a woman who wrote “I was raped and I wish I could take back those nights.”

Tiffany started the night’s

celebration off by leading the participants in laughter yoga. Then the staff from the Native Women’s Centre stood in a circle and led the group in a traditional song.

Jenn from the YWCA got the women ready for the march by leading the crowd through an energetic Zumba dance. It was amazing to see hundreds of women moving together in synchronicity.

Lastly, Hamilton’s Queen Cee hopped up to the microphone to share her gorgeous voice. She sang the song ‘Bread and Roses’ which was sung by striking women in the Lawrence Textile Strike of 1912. Women and children from over twenty different countries walked out of work in the textile mills of Lawrence, Massachusetts demanding better pay, a shorter work week and a better quality of life for themselves and their children. This song, unfortunately, still rings true today.

As the marchers left City Hall and spread out onto Main Street they began raising their

voices together. You could hear “women united will never be defeated!” as they rounded James Street.

At Gore Park an enthusiastic group of male allies was waiting to cheer on the marching women and children. The male allies had also organized a speaker and discussion group in solidarity with the women.

After an hour long march and much chanting, singing, dancing and noisemaking, the women returned to City Hall to share food that had been donated by Hamilton businesses.

Take Back the Night is an empowering incredible event because of the wonderful women who attend and the amazing volunteers who make it possible!

Planning has already begun for the thirtieth anniversary of Take Back the Night in Hamilton. If you would like to be involved in the planning committee please contact SACHA at 905.525.4573 or erin@sacha.ca.

Rain can’t stop us! Nothing can stop us!

By Erin Crickett, Public Educator, Sexual Assault Centre of Hamilton & Area

LINC 5+

1. What is the purpose of Take Back the Night?

2. What is the origin of the song “Bread and Roses” that Queen Cee sang at TBTN?

Discussion: What does the chant “Women united will never be defeated!” mean to you?

Women march to end gendered violence

Women in Hamilton, Raising our Voices.

Issue 8 • Nov. & Dec. 2010 • p.6

This song has been at the top spot on several music charts for most of the summer. It has sold more than three million downloads and I have seen girls in Grade 3 singing along with it when it plays on the radio. The song is Eminem and Rihanna’s “Love the Way you Lie”.

The music video, in case you haven’t seen it, shows a couple played by two popular Hollywood stars (Megan Fox and Dominic Monaghan), physically fighting with each other, then making up and making out. Fire is the backdrop in the video – we are shown a burning house as well as her holding fire in her hands – it’s a clear metaphor for their turbulent relationship.

My concern is this: how do young people internalize this

kind of violence? A couple of months ago I

was looking at the Facebook page of a fifteen year old boy. On his Facebook page he quoted Eminem’s lyrics: I know I’m a liarIf she ever tries to f---ing leave againI’ma tie her to the bedAnd set the house on fire

Clearly, this quote had meaning for him but how and why did these violent lyrics resonate with him?

Has domestic violence become glamourized through popular culture? Do certain kids see the two characters in the video as role models? How do the lyrics impact the sing-along girls in Grade 3? Lots of questions… no easy answers.

At a recent staff meeting at Inasmuch House shelter we watched the video and discussed the impact that the lyrics and video have on the violence against women sector. I asked them to list not just the

way it harms society but the ways that it can help. Some of the women advocates in the room felt that it is bringing awareness to the subject of abuse. Many felt that this is exactly the kind of message that we don’t need.

We know that Rihanna is herself a victim of domestic violence and Eminem was abusive to his ex-wife.

Survivors of abuse have said that they are grateful to Rihanna for bringing truth to a delicate subject and that “she got it right”. Teenage boys that I have spoken to about this song have said that I am making too much out of it. Maybe, but can you make too much out of violence against women considering that one in four women in our society experience violence?

I don’t subscribe to the idea that if kids listen to enough violent and misogynist lyrics, this will cause them to become violent woman abusers. But, I do think that the messages that current popular culture brings to us help to propagate disrespect and degradation and these are the very things that lead to violence against women. The more we hear these songs, the more desensitized we are to the meaning. And that’s the scary part because it’s the desensitization of violence that makes it more acceptable.

LINC 5+

1. What happens in the video the author describes?

2. What was one perspective about the video that came up at the staff meeting?

Discussion: What do you think about the effect violence in popular culture can have on children?

Pop culture glamourizes domestic violenceValerie Sadler, Director of Women’s Services - Inasmuch House, Mission Services of Hamilton

“The more we hear these songs, the more desensitized we are to

the meaning.”

Screenshot from the Rihanna and Eminem music video for “Love the Way You Lie”.

When we decide we want to “do” something about violence against women, we typically look for opportunities to make a difference on a front line level. We may consider volunteering at a crisis line. We may donate clothing, toys or money to a shelter. Or we may even decide to devote our career to working with women and their children who have experienced, witnessed and survived violence and abuse. And while these actions are important, meaningful and necessary, there remains the looming fact that violence and abuse still exist, and that many continue to hold the ideology that violence and abuse is inevitable and, in some cases, acceptable. It is at this stage when we need to consider the need for action on a larger scale and engage in movement that strives towards working to end violence and abuse against women and their children.

The term “action”, in the political sense, is synonomously referred to as advocacy or lobbying. It means aiming to influence public policy and ideology, which in this case, working to challenge the ideologies that validate and condone woman abuse. For instance, the WAWG action committee this past year launched a campaign addressing a urinal in a male washroom at a local restaurant, that was shaped like a woman’s mouth. As a political advocacy group and community members, we felt this urinal sent validating messages that violence again women is acceptable and even funny. By rallying our community and engaging in various action tactics, the urinal was removed.

This action that occurs on a political and community scale is wholly necessary to working to end violence against women. In her 1969 essay, Carol Hanisch coined the phrase “the person is political”. This was in reference to the needs and rights of women can no longer be advocated for on a personal level – the personal needs and rights of an individual are in fact a political or community issue, as it is the community’s responsibility to ensure that the rights of all are respected and upheld.

We sometimes get overwhelmed by the enormity of this issue and feel that because I am only one person, I can’t stop violence again women. Sociologist Margaret Mead once stated: “A small group of thoughtful people [can] change the world. Indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has”. When we engage in political action, we must remember that our voices matter, that what we have to say is important, and we must have faith that someone will listen.

When we turn our attention to the issue on a larger scale, we are sending the message that not only does that individual woman who is living with abuse deserve to speak to someone safely on the phone, have nice belongings and talk to a skilled counsellor – we are also saying that she deserves to live in a society free from violence and abuse. When we engage in political action, we become one step closer to ending violence and abuse for women and their children.

A call for action to end violence against women

“A small group of thoughtful people [can] change the world. Indeed, it’s

the only thing that ever has”-Margaret Mead

By Dana Gillespie Tozer, Team Leader, Abuse & Violence Intervention & Prevention Team, Catholic Family Services of Hamilton

LINC 6+

1. What is the meaning of “action” in the sense that the author is referring to?

2. What was the focus of the campaign launched last year by WAWG’s Action Committee?

Discussion: What does the phrase “the person is political” mean to you?

Women in Hamilton, Raising our Voices.

Issue 8 • Nov. & Dec. 2010 • p.7

Custody and access, divorce, child support, spousal support, division of assets or property, restraining order, matrimonial home… All of these terms can seem confusing and overwhelming, especially for women whose first language is not English and/or are leaving abusive relationships. As a sub-committee of WAWG, the Court Committee works towards reducing barriers for women by providing information, coordinating systems and advocating for change.

If you or someone you know has been abused and is thinking about going through Family Court, here are a few tips to help you get started.

Legal Advocates are available at each of the women’s shelters and can provide you with information, support and resources on a variety of legal issues. They assist in navigating through complicated and often difficult legal systems. Cultural interpreters are available and you do not have to live in a shelter to access a Legal Advocate. (For more information on Legal Advocates see “Women’s agencies offer legal advocacy support” below)

When starting the Family

Court process, it’s important to determine whether or not you can afford a lawyer. If you think that you can’t, you can apply to Legal Aid Ontario for financial help. In Hamilton, you can go to the Family Court House at 55 Main St. West to meet with a Duty Counsel Lawyer in the Family Law Information Centre (FLIC).

The Duty Counsel Lawyer will complete an assessment to decide if you need a referral to Legal Aid Ontario. Once you receive your referral, you will be directed to call Legal Aid Ontario who will determine if you have been approved for financial assistance. Once you are approved, they will mail your Legal Aid Certificate to you, so it is important to make sure this is a safe address for you to receive mail. The next step is to find a lawyer.

There are some lawyers in Hamilton who have received specific training on domestic violence, and a Legal Advocate can provide you with this list of these lawyers. When you are looking for a lawyer, you can interview several before you decide which one is best for you. A good lawyer should let you know your rights, give you

advice and guidance but asks you what you want to do.

Here are some tips for working with your lawyer.1. Be prepared and take as

much documentation and information with you as possible.

2. Tell your entire story, or have it written out ahead of time.

3. Have a list of questions to bring with you.

4. Be aware of court deadlines so they don’t get missed.

5. Remember that your lawyer’s job is to work for you.When you meet with your

lawyer, she will assist you with filling out your application to the Family Court. Once it’s submitted to the court, you then become the “applicant” (the person who started the application) and assigned a first court date. Your ex-partner will need to respond to your application and he will become the “respondent”. There can be many more court dates after this, depending on whether an agreement can be made. It is always important to think about your safety during this whole process.

Family court: where to start, what to expectBy Natasha Dobler, Clinical Coordinator, Women’s Centre of Hamilton

Legal Advocate, Natalie Charette (second from left) pictured here at the Hamilton Family Courthouse with students Jessica Bonilla-Damptey, Ashley Joseph-Young and Lida Esmati, supports women through legal processes.

LINC 4+

1. What does the Court Committee do?

2. What are two tips for working with your lawyer?

Discussion: What services or resources would you suggest to make the court process easier to navigate and understand?

Helpful Definitions for Family Court:Custody: The right to make important decisions about the care and upbringing of a child, such as religion, schooling and medical treatment.

Access: The right to spend time with a child, usually the parent without custody.

Child Support: Money paid to the custodial parent for the day-to-day expenses of the child

Restraining Order: A court order that prevents one person from having any contact with the other.

Interim Custody Order: Temporary arrangements for the children while going through Family Court, before a final decision is made.

You should know:A woman who has permanent resident status cannot lose that status or be removed from Canada because she leaves an abusive relationship. This is true even if her abusive partner is her sponsor.

Online Resources:Family law education for women: www.onefamilylaw.ca Ontario Women’s Justice Network: www.owjn.org Community Legal Education Ontario: www.cleo.on.ca Metropolitan Action Committee on Violence Against Women and Children: www.metrac.org

Since 1991, the Hamilton area has had the benefi-cial services of a legal advocate working directly out of a shelter, meeting with women, in or leaving an abusive relationship, who may or may not be living in a shelter.

In late 2008 legal advocate services expanded to a total of four Women’s Service organizations provid-ing legal advocacy. This expansion of services contin-ued to climb to a total of five Women’s Service Orga-nizations in early 2010. The need for legal advocacy services just keeps climbing. This program is not yet funded by the government and is totally fundraised for.

A legal advocate provides support, information, advocacy and referrals on a variety of legal topics. She assists women in navigating through the legal sys-tem, creating safety plans, preparing documents and attending court and other legal appointments with women. She is not a lawyer and she is not a paralegal.

The court process can be intimidating for a wom-an. She must first determine if she is eligible for Legal Aid assistance, which can be a whole process in itself. If she is ineligible for Legal Aid she has no option but to self represent or pay for a lawyer. Feeling over-whelmed yet? Well that is just the beginning of the

Legal System. The next step is to find a lawyer who will accept a Legal Aid Certificate, or who has time to meet with her.

The court process can be overwhelming with anxi-ety as the woman has a whole to-do list that she must complete before she is given a date to be heard. Have you seen the stack of papers that must be completed to start an application for custody in Family Court? Not to mention that there are always changes made which can sometimes create mountains for women to climb before reaching their destination.

A Legal Advocate is able to work alongside wom-en, providing support and guidance through this journey. The Legal Advocates of Hamilton

LINC 4+

1. How many organizations offered Legal Advocates in 2008?

2. What is one step a woman must take in the court process?

Discussion: Do you think that Legal Advocacy services should be funded by the government? Why or why not?

Women’s agencies offer legal advocacy support

What can a legal advocate assist you with?• Family Law (Custody and Access, Separation

and Divorce, Child Support, Property/Asset Claims, Restraining Orders)

• Criminal Law (Police, Victim Services, Vic-tim Witness Assistance Program, Criminal Injuries Compensation, Dual Charges, Peace Bonds, Laying Private Charges)

• Immigration Law• Lawyer Referrals• Legal Aid (applications and appeals)•Duty Counsel• Safety Planning and Risk Assessment• Child Welfare (C/CAS)• Landlord/Tenant & Subsidized Housing•Ontario Works/ODSP• Court Accompaniment• ...and much more!

Need Support? Contact a legal advocate at:Inasmuch House: 905-529-8149Interval House: 905-387-9959Martha House: 905-523-8895Native Women’s Centre: 905-522-1501Phoenix Place: 905-527-2238

Small groups - maximum 5 students per group.$10 per hour with an experienced tutor

At 182 Rebecca St.For more information or to register call Joyce at 905-525-9676

Personal Support Worker Diploma Program &

Pharmacy Assistant Program

Our graduates are working!

Central Health Institute offers daytime, evening and weekend programs to help you fulfill your

career goals.

346 Main St. EastHamilton, ON L8N 1J2

centralhealthinstitute.com

Phone: 905-524-0440Email: 905-524-0210

Enhance your credentials!• National Food Safety Training Program• CPI Non-Violent Crisis Intervention Training (students only)• Alzheimer’s/Dementia Care Program• Palliative Care Program• Stroke Awareness Training

Women in Hamilton, Raising our Voices.

Issue 8 • Nov. & Dec. 2010 • p.8

The Native Women’s Association of Canada (NWAC) launched the National Sisters in Spirit Campaign in March 2004 to raise public awareness of the alarmingly high rates of violence against Aboriginal women in Canada. In November 2005, the campaign became an initiative. The main objective of the Sisters in Spirit initiative is to address violence against Aboriginal (First Nations, Inuit, and Métis) women, particularly racialized and/or sexualized violence, that is, violence perpetrated against Aboriginal women because of their gender and Aboriginal identity. This means that Aboriginal women are being demoralized, beaten, abused, and killed…because they are Aboriginal.

The Sisters in Spirit campaign has created a day of remembrance on October 4th. On this day, we gather, in vigil for the women who have been needlessly taken from us.

On October 4th, 2010 the Native Women’s Centre of Hamilton held the 5th annual Sisters in Spirit Vigil with well over 60 community members in attendance. Various speakers spoke

of their concerns and commitment to support this initiative and work in partnership to end violence against Aboriginal women. The most moving speaker was Wonda Jamieson who addressed the crowd in an emotional speech on the death of her mother, Cynthia Jamieson and how this huge loss has had on her and her family. The vigil concluded with a roll call calling out the names of all our Sisters in Spirit who have been taken from their families.

Presently, there are approximately 600 missing and murdered Aboriginal women. The question was asked “Would it shock you to know that for every one Aboriginal women in Canada there are 1,000 non-Aboriginal women? This means that the approximate 600 missing and murdered Aboriginal women represent approximately 60,000 non-Aboriginal women. I wonder if it would be a struggle to bring people out to the vigil, to raise a voice, raise a hand to stop this epidemic if we were discussing 60,000 non-Aboriginal women?” This question haunts me.

Campaign addresses violence against Aboriginal womenBy Linda Ense, Executive Director, Native Women’s Centre

Native Women’s Centre singers performing the Strong Woman Song and the Sisters in Spirit Vigil, October 4, 2010. Photo: Courtesy of the Native Women`s Centre

Discussion: What do you think the answer to the question the author asks at the end of the story is?

1. What did Wonda Jamieson talk about in her speech?

2. How many Aboriginal Woman are missing and murdered?

LINC 5+

LINC 4+

1. Why would Jacqueline stay awake in her bed?

2. How long did it take for Jacqueline’s mother to leave her abusive husband?

3.

Discussion: What do you think are some reasons it might be hard from for women to leave abusive partners?

Women are talking about... What is one message you’d like to get across to

women during Woman Abuse Awareness month?Here’s what members of the WAWG committee had to say:

Bridget Marsdin The AIDS Network

“Love, cherish and value all of your sisters however and whenev-er you can. Be her refuge. Always remember, that the greatest cow-ardice is found in the abuser and the greatest resilience is found in the woman abused.”

Natasha DoblerWomen’s Centre of Hamilton

“If you are in an abusive rela-tionship, you don’t have to live at a shelter to get support. Every shelter has an outreach worker, or a Transitional Support Worker, that can meet with you at a safe location in the community, like a library, school, or coffee shop.”

Kristene ViljasooGood Shepherd

“Try and do at least one thing for you everyday, to nurture and sustain yourself. As women, we are often busy taking care of those around us and we are the last per-son on our own list! Take care of yourself in the same spirit you care for others.”

Women in Hamilton, Raising our Voices.

Issue 8 • Nov. & Dec. 2010 • p.9

-continued from page 1 - I always remember the time I came downstairs in

the morning and thought my Mom was dead because there was blood on the walls. It was his. We were so scared as kids. We begged her to leave him when I was twelve or thirteen years old. She said she would but didn’t. It took five years for her to leave him. There were many horrible things that went on in our home, but I thought it was the normal family until I started going on sleepovers. My children will always be safe from this even if it kills me.

So what happened to me? It took a very long time to heal and feel good about myself. I spent a lot of years of not trusting anyone, especially men. I had problems with relationships and other people took advantage of me. I picked men who drank or were emotionally abusive because I guess I thought I wasn’t worth more than that. I sabotaged my life by quitting school, courses, jobs, especially if I was close to being successful at it.

I didn’t deserve anything good and I was fearful. I knew how to deal with bad situations and people, not good ones.

I used drugs for a short time to deal with my pain and hung out with others that I couldn’t get attached too. My sister used men and hurt them before they hurt her and drank for years.

My brother drank and was angry at everyone. We all suffered in our personal lives from the effects of our abusive Dad.

I spent many years healing - what a long hard road it is to rebuild your self esteem, confidence and trust. My boundaries were skewed and confusing growing up. I still have some anger and trust issues but am doing okay. I use my memories to help keep me on track and strong. My siblings are also doing okay and there will always be issues, but we stick together and keep working it out.

One thing I would say to Moms in an abusive relationship is that children hear and see more than you think. Listen to your children; you could help them have a better life growing up. Jacqueline S.

Reflecting on my childhood

“Listen to your children; you could help them have a better life

growing up.”

Denise DoyleYWCA Hamilton

"Over 100,000 women and children enter shelters in Canada annually; the population of a small Canadian city. They leave their homes, communities and jobs in a courageous effort to build safer lives. We know the supports women need- what we need now is a coordinated government action to put them in place."

Valerie Sadler, Inasmuch House

“November 25th is the Inter-national Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and December 6th marks the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women in Canada. What can we do, indi-vidually and collectively, to make a difference not just on these two days but each and every day?”

Radenka LescesenImmigrant Women’s Centre

“Leaving an abusive relation-ship is a challenge for most wom-en, but it’s more overwhelming if you have to navigate a new culture and community. Immigrant and refugee women can experience tremendous isolation – if you feel isolated and don’t know where to turn, know that here in Hamilton women-centred agencies will of-fer you support and safety.”

An early intervention program for children age 4-16 yrs who have witnessed the abuse of their mother/guardian. The purpose is to provide women and children with a safe place to discuss the abuse they have been exposed to.

transportation assistance, snacks and accessibility.

There are many people who believe that HIV/AIDS does not impact their lives.

We are all the face of HIV. Even if HIV does not run through your veins; it runs through your community. It is a woman’s issue, it is our issue. Over 25% of new diagnoses in Ontario are women aged 15-29 years old. HIV positive women are our sisters, our mothers and our daughters. The AIDS Network offers specific programming to reach out to Women and our African/Caribbean communities.

The Women’s Outreach Program focuses on identifying health issues facing women in Canada and developing ways to prevent women from getting HIV. By being involved in the communities we serve, our goal is to meet with community members and professionals to talk about women and HIV and provide resources and referrals. We believe that by educating the public about HIV/AIDS, we can prevent the spread of the disease.

As the Women’s Community Mobilization Coordinator, my role is to connect with the public and local professionals to offer information sessions about women and HIV/AIDS in Canada. Breaking down the stigma that is attached to HIV is an important part of my work.

To learn more or to book an information session at your agency, please contact Audra Petrulis, Women’s Community Mobilization Coordinator, 905.528.0854 x242, apetrulis@aidsnetwork.ca

The African, Caribbean and Black Community Outreach Program is a community development and outreach program that works with African, Caribbean and Black communities in HIV/AIDS education, prevention, advocacy and support. In partnership with service providers, we consult with our communities to develop culturally sensitive information on HIV/AIDS.

We deliver and facilitate

workshops and presentations on issues concerning HIV/AIDS prevention and sexual health for our communities and we continuously seek appropriate public speaking engagements and other opportunities to promote the services and programs of The AIDS Network. The program also recruits volunteers from ACB communities to assist in delivery of its programs and participate on our advisory committee.

To learn more or to book an information session at your agency, please contact Sibhekinkosi, African, Caribbean and Black Community Outreach Coordinator, 905.528.0854 x 234, smhlanga-moore@aidsnetwork.ca

Women in Hamilton, Raising our Voices.

Issue 8 • Nov. & Dec. 2010 • p.10

Movie Review:

Eat, Pray, LoveDiana Tikasz, Coordinator, Sexual Assault Domestic Violence Care Centre, Hamilton Health Sciences

As usual the movie is never as good as the book. How-ever, in this case, the book was also not as good as the au-dio (downloaded from The Hamilton Public Library). I have read, listened to and watched Eat, Pray, Love and by far my most enjoyable experience has been the audio book read by Elizabeth Gilbert herself. EPL is a personal story about spiritual growth and self-discovery that takes place in Italy, India and Bali over the course of a year. The mov-ie, unfortunately, greatly lacks in conveying the depth of Gilbert’s journey although the cinematography is beauti-ful and Julia Roberts, exceptional. Listening to the author retell her experiences in her own voice really conveys a breadth of emotion that I found compelling as I was often tearing up or laughing out loud as I listened.

What the movie does do well is to portray how diffi-cult it is to get over a broken heart. This is a theme that escaped me in my reading and listening but is as relevant and universal as the personal/spiritual growth theme that I connected with so whole heartedly. What resonated for me was not the adventure of doing what she did, because most of us do not have the luxury to take a year off to find ourselves, but I discovered, in my listening, many inspi-rational moments that I have applied to my own journey. There are many roads to Rome so to speak, Elizabeth Gil-bert shared hers with the world, most of ours are more private. However, I am grateful to her words as they en-courage me in walking my path.

Book review:

The Girl with the Dragon TattooDana Gillespie Tozer, Team Leader Abuse and Violence Intervention and Prevention Team, Catholic Family Services of Hamilton

The concept of misogyny is over-whelming. Simply deconstructed, it means hatred, hostility and con-tempt for a woman, just because she is a woman. It is a heavy term that is rarely used lightly, is often dis-puted or justified and unfortunate-ly, speaks to many women’s experi-ences and struggles in our society. It is this heavy concept that writer Stieg Larsson tackles in “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo”.

The first in his trilogy set against the cold and eerie backdrop of Northern Sweden, Larsson invites his readers along for the journey em-barked upon by Mikael Blomkvist, a journalist whose fight for justice and unwavering commitment to the truth lands him in hot legal waters and a period of transition. Blom-

kvist finds himself in the awkward position of playing private detec-tive, as he grants a dying man’s last wish of solving the mystery of what happened to his beloved niece, who vanished without a trace forty years ago. Blomkvist soon finds himself relying on the unlikely assistance of young Lisbeth Salander, a feisty, non-conforming computer hacker who defies gender norms and ste-reotypes with blatant honesty and confrontation. As the improbable pair delve deeper into this thriller, they unearth shocking secrets and scandals, which leave both char-acters vulnerable and reliant upon each other.

Larsson’s suspense thriller keeps you guessing, and your heart rac-ing, but what makes this novel stand

apart from its genre’s counterparts is this: Originally published under the title “Men who Hate Women”, Larsson examines, through the lenses of Blomkvist’s and Salander’s adventure, the concept of misogy-ny. Salander becomes an avenger of women’s rights – formidably defying and sometimes directly at-tacking all those who tell her she’s not good enough, strong enough or smart enough, just because she is a woman.

Larsson’s talent for crafting real, raw, and relatable characters navi-gating a suspenseful, intelligent and multi-layered plot is a recipe for a best seller. Using these talents to provoke insight and reflection into how we treat women in our society is pure genius.

LINC 5+

1. What is the focus of the Women’s Outreach Program?

2. What are two things the African, Caribbean and Blcak Community Outreach Program does?

Discussion: What do you think the community’s role in HIV/AIDS prevention and awareness should be?

HIV is in HamiltonBridget Marsdin, Case Manager, The Aids Network

“Even if HIV does not run through your veins; it runs through your community. It is a woman’s

issue, it is our issue.”

Did you know?• Studies suggest that women with or at greater risk of

contracting HIV come from populations that are also at greater risk for violence.

• Aboriginal women comprise almost half (47%) of HIV+ results.

• Women who live in sub-Saharan Africa comprise 61% of new diagnoses.

• 70% of newly infected women in Ontario contracted HIV through heterosexual sex.

“HIV positive women are our

sisters, our mothers and our

daughters.”

-continued from page 1-When children living in

violence enter daycare and kindergarten, they hear rules such as “use your words, not your hands” but they have no context to rely on and these rules therefore do not make sense. Instead, these children have constructed their own understanding of the social order and it could mean to them that “might makes right”. These behaviours are often carried on as they enter the higher grades and these are some of the issues that teachers must face.

The role of teachers includes more than the act of teaching. It also involves connecting with and influencing a large group of people. Every decision made by the teacher, every word spoken and action witnessed makes a difference to the lives of the students. But, what is the expectation of teachers? After all, they are teachers and not social workers. A Grade 1 teacher

explained that “the reality is there is no avoiding being a social worker, nurse, Mom, referee, as well as teacher”. It’s sometimes hard to separate all of these different roles that teachers have. Knowing each student is the cornerstone of teacher and student success. How easy is this though, in a classroom of twenty five students? Knowing what is happening in a child’s life is sometimes easy; a cast on her leg from sports, custody papers to which the school must respond, or a new baby in the house. All of these things are tangible; visible. The problem with children living in violence is that it is largely invisible. Fear and

trauma look different on the face of each child and the behaviours often play out differently. Clearly, this is a serious issue that is playing out in our classrooms with many teachers unaware and untrained. We hope that the kits that we have created are a first step in this direction. Having teachers understand the dynamics of domestic violence and the impact of children’s exposure to violence will allow them to better serve each and every child in the classroom and the rewards will greatly outweigh the investment.Valerie Sadler

To find out more about the kit, contact Valerie Sadler at vsadler@mission-services.com

Get the English you need for the job you want!LINC Communication for Employment • Communicate effectively about your skills• Learn key idioms and vocabulary for jobs & job-search• Practice for job interviews• Learn how to job-search• Build your networks

For information or to register call Vivyan at 905-529-5209 x233

Sewing class at 182 Rebecca Street. Next class: November 9 – 25, Tuesdays & Thursdays, 4 - 6 pm.

Time Well Spent: Join us at the Immigrant Women's Centre!

Free childminding with all daytime programs

At 8 Main St. E: November 9 – 25, Tuesdays & Thursdays, 1- 3 pm. Next session: January 11- 27, 2011. Call Vivyan at 905.529.5209 X 233

Build confidence, get the job: LINC Communiation for Work

Next Session starts November 1, Mon – Fri, 1- 4 pm at 8 Main Street East. Following sessionsStarts January 4. Call Vivyan at 905.529.5209 X 233

Improve your computer skills!

At 8 Main Street East

At 182 Rebecca StreetBasic skills: November 8 – 24, Mondays & Wednesdays, 10 am – 12pm. Call Joyce at 905.525.9676

Coming soon!

Women in the Trades “How-to”: November 16 & 18, 1– 3:30pm. Call Alinamaria at 905.529.5209 x 227

Explore your talents & skills: Enterprising Women Program

Next session: November 8 - December 23 Monday – Friday, 9 am – 12 pm at 8 Main Street East. Free bus pass & extra benefits. Call Phoebe at 905.529.5209 X 221

Gain new skills:

Bridging program for International Medical Graduates at 182 Rebecca Street, every Wednesday, 5 – 8 pm. Call Joyce at 905.525.9676

Your Money, Your Future: Manage your money in Canada

Next workshop: November 9 - December 17, Tuesdays & Thursdays, 9 am – 12 pm at 182 Rebecca St. Following Session starts January 11, 2011 at 1119 Fennell Ave. E. Call Nabila at 905.529.5209 X 261

Learn to drive & build independance: G1 Driving club.

At 182 Rebecca St: November 9-25, Tuesdays & Thursdays. 4 – 6 pm. Call Joyce at 905.525.9676 x 221

MS PowerPoint: November 10 - 26, Wednesdays & Fridays, 9:30 am - 12:00 pm. MS Publisher: January 12- 28, Wednesdays & Fridays, 9:30 am -12:00 pm. QuickBooks Refresher: January 17- February 23, 2011 a six week program. Call Vivyan at 905.529.5209 X 233

The Bridge for IMGs

Milk and physical activity (Arabic): November 3, 1 – 3 pm. Reading Food labels (Arabic): November 17, 1 – 3 pm. Call Joyce at 905.525.9676Self esteem & Healthy Relationship: November 11 - December 16, 12:30 – 2:30pm at 1119 Fennell Ave. East Call Nada at 905.387.1100 X 226

Be Well! Health and Wellness information sessions.

Women in Hamilton, Raising our Voices.

Issue 8 • Nov. & Dec. 2010 • p.11

Learn to sew!

Get basic household repair skills!

Learn to speak Arabic!Introduction to Arabic - Drop-ins welcome - every Wednesday until December 8, 6:30-7:30 pm at 182 Rebecca St.

Programs for Youth:

Help in French for kids grade 4 - 8 November 4 - December 2, every Thursday, 4 – 6pm at 182 Rebecca St. Parents welcome.

Math for kids!After-school program starting soon. Call Joyce at 905-525-9676 x 221 for times and dates.

End your fear of the phone! LINC Telephone Skills Program.

Next Session starts January 4, 2011, Monday – Friday, 1- 4 pm at 8 Main Street East. Call Vivyan at 905.529.5209 X 233

Every Friday 4 - 5 pm, Grades 3-7 Parents welcome! Susan’s Story Time

Conversation Circle; Education & Training Preparation; Learn About Post Secondary Education; Universities & Colleges and Apprenticeship programs; Build your Career in the Canadian Work Culture; First AID & CPR Training & Certification; French for adults; Math for Women. Call Joyce @ 905 525 9676 x 221 for more information.

6th Annual International Marketplace!

Buy gifts from around the world and support economic development for women! November 26, 10 am - 7 pm & November 27, 10 am - 5 pm. Immanuel Christian Reformed Church - 61 Mohawk Road West.For more information call Alina at 905-529-5209 x 227 or visit www.stjosephwomen.on.ca

Effects of witnessing abuse last a lifetime

LINC 4+

1. What is the estimated number of kids in a classroom who have witnessed family violence?

2. What are two of the effects that witnessing violence can have on children?

Discussion: What kinds of programs or supports would you suggest for children who have experienced family violence?

Women in Hamilton, Raising our Voices.

Issue 8 • Nov. & Dec. 2010 • p.12

1208-72 The Women’s Press - Collège Boréalle 22 octobre 2010

grandeur : 10” L x 7.375” hcouleur

Holiday shopping with a social conscience

Friday November 26, 10 am - 7 pmSaturday November 27, 10 am - 5 pm

For more information contact Alina at 905-529-5209 x 227 or marketplace@stjosephwomen.on.ca

Up-cycled gifts, gifts from around the world & locally made goods!International lunch: food from 7 countries!

61 Mohawk Road WestImmanuel Christian Reformed Church