Homeless shelters organization gets image makeover
Published Tuesday December 2nd, 2008
The group that runs Fredericton's homeless shelters has taken on a new name and image.
The organization is now known as Fredericton Homeless Shelters.
The changes are to better reflect what the organization does, said its executive director.
"There seemed to be confusion at times with the old name, Fredericton Emergency Shelters. Some people thought we were only reacting to natural disasters like the flood," said Brian Duplessis.
"We have changed our name to more accurately reflect what we do.
"However, our mission remains the same: To provide a safe, clean and supportive environment for the homeless."
Duplessis said the organization has also changed its logo to include two roofs to represent both of the shelters the organization runs: the Fredericton Men's Shelter and Grace House for Women.
The name change and new logo come as the group enters into its busiest fundraising period.
"We must raise in excess of $250,000 a year just to keep the doors open at the two shelters," Duplessis said.
Fredericton Homeless Shelters is waiting to learn whether the city will respond to its request for $60,000 in municipal funding.
More than 500 men and women make use of the shelter every year, Duplessis said. Some stay for just a few days, others rely on it through the year.
Shelter users this year ranged in age from 16 to 83 years old.
The organization has provided more than 15,000 bed nights in 2008.
Duplessis said approximately 60 per cent of the shelter's clients suffer from mental illness, either diagnosed or undiagnosed.
Up to 80 per cent contend with addiction to drugs, alcohol or gambling.
Board member Duncan Matheson said the new name is a lot clearer.
"Fredericton Homeless Shelters is unambiguous. People know exactly what it means when you say it," he said.
He hopes that translates into more support.
"Economically, going into tough times, we need it more than ever," Matheson said.
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