Agape House sees increase in need for shelter and support

There is an increase in the number of women and children accessing Agape House in Steinbach. 

Executive Director Tracy Whitby says the shelter has space for 16 people and their beds are often full. 

“Currently this year, we are seeing higher numbers than we have seen in at least over a decade and substantially higher numbers. We're on track right now to see a 43% increase over last year, which is huge.” 

With numbers like that, she says they need to work on expansion plans. 

“There’s a lot of work that goes into an addition, adding those bedrooms. It's a collaboration between the government, our community, raising the funds, and discussions with Manitoba Housing as well because we do operate out of Manitoba Housing buildings.” 

Agape House opened its’ doors in December 1985, out of a three-bedroom bungalow. Today, the shelter has 16 beds, and in an average year sees over 200 clients and responds to over 1,000 crisis calls from the area. - agapehouse.ca

Whitby says they sometimes have to transfer clients to other shelters or access hotels when the beds are full at Agape House. 

She says the community can show their support by attending their Purple Gala event on March 8th. It’s an evening to celebrate International Women’s Day with performances, music, appetizers, cocktails and a silent auction. 

Funds raised at this event are essential to sustaining the critical services provided by Agape House. 

Whitby notes donations can also be made specifically to capital projects which will help with expansion plans.