Women's shelter stays closed despite protests and pleas

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Edmonton

A 20-bed shelter for women in crisis will not be reopened, despite efforts of women's groups.

Social Services Minister Connie Osterman says that Edmonton's Hilltop House was closed June 30 because of budget cuts and because former residents can be served by the department in other ways.

Osterman says, "I believe there are (other) counselling services available, but the gals (the women protesting the closure) think these people need someone with them at night as well ? sort of a total atmosphere."

Jane Wiley, a board member of the Alberta Status of Women Action Committee (ASWAC), says the women formerly served by Hilltop House will likely not be reached by the department in other ways.

"We'd like to find those women and hear their stories," she said, urging them to contact ASWAC. We'll take their stories back to the minister."

Hilltop House opened in 1965 and had a budget of $300,000 per year.