Responding to your editorial in last week's edition, we appreciate the coverage your paper has provided on the issue of domestic violence in recent months. We believe it is important that the Cochrane community is informed about the seriousness of this issue, especially in light of the statistics that you quote - a 71 per cent increase in local reported spousal abuse in the past year, and the position of Alberta as third highest in the rate of domestic violence in Canada.
We also appreciate the efforts in your editorial to provide information for the public about programs to assist those suffering the effects of domestic violence. You give some telephone numbers for access to emergency assistance. You mention the efforts of Big Hill Haven to provide safety and resources for women and children in Cochrane.
But it appears you are not aware that Big Hill Haven employs an Outreach Worker, based at the FCSS office in downtown Cochrane, who is available and prepared to assist families in crisis as a result of domestic violence. Her telephone number is 403-796-6564. Her email address is [email protected]. There is also a website providing information: www.bighillhaven.ca. The community should know that while
we do not presently have a shelter, we do have expert assistance available right here in Cochrane.
Ana Botelho Clark and Faith Brace, Big Hill Haven Women's Shelter
