We are proud to feature our charity of the month in this interview Donna Jean Forster, Finance Manager of Optimism Place Women’s Shelter and Support Services, the only emergency women’s shelter in Perth County. They have been providing support for women and children experiencing domestic violence since 1983 and currently serve over 150 women and children each year. The caring staff are available to answer calls 24 hours a day from women who are experiencing any form of abuse in their lives.

What makes Optimism Place special is that while they provide a safe and secure residence for women with or without children, they also offer a wide range of free and confidential support services and programs for women and their children who reside anywhere in Perth County. 

We hope you enjoy this interview and that it gives you deeper insight into the helpful service they provide for women and children in need.

Q: What moments of courage have you experienced in your women’s shelter that have stayed with you?

When a women gathers up her courage to leave a relationship that has been causing physical or emotional pain she is at her most vulnerable. When she reaches out to our staff, seeking the safety and wrap around supports of our shelter she is at her most brave. Stepping through the doors of a shelter is no easy task and it signals a moment of great transition for her and for her children which requires immense courage and continued bravery.

Q: Nothing is more valuable than our capacity to love in times of need – can you share an example of this?

Our community demonstrates great love for the work of Optimism Place and those who are accessing our services. They do this through creative fundraising efforts and through acts of kindness like donating food and hygiene items or bringing a pizza and cake party to the residents. These acts of love and kindness bring wonderful moments, big smiles and positive feelings to those we serve and our staff too. It is truly a wonderful feeling to be cared for in the moments we need it most.

Q: Which do you find are the biggest fears when someone enters your women’s shelter?

Women and children who come to stay at Optimism Place often leave behind everything that is familiar to them including their community, school, family members and pets. It is a difficult time of loss and transition.

When they come to Optimism Place they can be assured that they will have a bedroom with a comfy bed and a place to put their clothes. They will have a kitchen and food to cook along with cozy living areas to watch Netflix or find solitude. There is a great back yard with a sandbox, climbers and even a splash pad. They will also find a huge play room filled with all kinds of toys.

Q: From our products, what is your wish list item for Optimism Place?

• Wish I Knew: Gentle Quotes On Courage
• The Wish I Knew: Grief and Loss Set
• Wish I Knew: Gentle Quotes On Gratitude
• Sea Glass
• When I Miss You

Thanks for supporting our featured charity of the month.