MEDIA ADVISORY – FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Alberta’s First Domestic Violence Shelter for Fathers and Children Opens November 19

CALGARY, AB – (November 18, 2024) The Canadian Centre for Men and Families will open Western Canada’s first transition house for fathers and children escaping domestic violence on November 19th, International Men’s Day.The Grand Opening event on November 19th from 6:00 – 8:00 PM MST will include a virtual tour and presentations by the project’s leadership.

“In Alberta, as in most of Canada, fathers and children face barriers to accessing support services during times of crisis,” said Bill Fitzimmons, CCMF Alberta Executive Director. “Fathers who suffer violence in the home often have no safe place where they can escape to with their children.”

This is CCMF’s second residency. In 2021, the agency established Toronto’s first family shelter for fathers and children. That home has welcomed over 300 residents to date, working with police, victim service, child welfare and shelters across the region.

The Calgary interim housing facility – incorporating emergency shelter and longer-term housing – closes a critical gap, offering a safe environment and tailored support to help men navigate challenges and access long-term resources. In addition to housing, CCMF hosts wrap-around services to help men rebuild their lives: therapy, legal support, parenting programs, and the agency’s signature Nexus Trauma Recovery Group where 12-16 male victims of domestic abuse meet together.

“Everyone deserves to be free from violence and abuse,” said Fitzommons. “We are proud to work collaboratively with agencies across Alberta, including many women serving organizations, in providing essential support for families in crisis.”

WHEN
Grand opening event will be held virtually on November 19th (International Men’s day), from 6pm-8pm MST. Individuals can follow the eventbrite link to sign up:
https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/ccmf-alberta-housing-grand-opening-event-tickets-1082487181299

WHERE
Virtual Attendance. Zoom link:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83999601436?pwd=9dL5l3TS01VcoVFM4lVJehiGIVz9aQ.1

WHO
Bill fitzsimmons, Executive Director, CCMF Alberta
Vance Elgiet, Housing Manager
Bill Jeffrey, Founder, Lonely Man project
CCMF Alberta leadership, clients, volunteers

MEDIA OPPORTUNITIES

Interview opportunities with CCMF Alberta staff, program participants, and community leaders.
Photo and video opportunities

Media representatives are encouraged to RSVP by November 19th at 4pm.

RSVP and CONTACT

For more information or to arrange interviews, please contact:
Bill Fitzsimmons
Executive Director
Canadian Centre for Men and Families (CCMF) Alberta
bfitzsimmons@ccmfaberta.ca
403 519 8597

About CCMF Alberta

The Canadian Centre for Men and Families (CCMF) Alberta is dedicated to providing resources, advocacy, and support for men and families in need. Through innovative programs and services, we address issues such as mental health, family breakdown, and homelessness to create stronger, healthier communities.

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