NEWS RELEASE FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE April 18, 2007

NEWS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 18, 2007
DARTMOUTH – Heritage Credit Union is lending a helping hand to Supportive Housing
for Young Mothers (SHYM) by organizing a baby shower for the new SHYM facility in
Dartmouth. The facility, to open in June 2007, will house up to 12 young mothers and
their children who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless. Community members
can donate new baby-related items at Heritage Credit Union’s six branches.
“I can’t thank you enough for all the support you continue to show for SHYM,” says
Amy Lachance, Child Development Coordinator for SHYM. The employees of the fullservice financial institution have also committed to, among other things, purchase and
build an outdoor shed, as well as provide the mothers with family budgeting information,
financial coaching and preparing for their child’s future.
SHYM has an extensive wish list for the baby shower, including items like commercial
baby food, diapers, bottles, blankets, books and toys, as well as items for the mothers,
such as toiletries, and the facility itself.
“It is our pleasure to support SHYM and their new facility,” says Ken Shea, President
and CEO of Heritage Credit Union. “Each year, our team continues to show a high level
of commitment to many community groups and organizations. We understand the
importance of having a safe and loving environment at home, and it is hoped that our
partnership with SHYM will help create that environment.”
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Since legislative changes were made in Nova Scotia in 2001, youth under 19 are not
eligible for income assistance unless proven that they cannot live with a family member.
These changes have led some young mothers to live with an abusive partner, exploitative
family member, or other individual who does not have the safety and security of mother
and child in mind.
SHYM is a registered non-profit organization that is dedicated to building a safe,
supportive housing program for and with young mothers. Their goal is to provide the
necessary supports, tools and community links so that young mothers can build a future
filled with promise and opportunities.
For the locations of Heritage Credit Union’s six branches or a full wish list for the new
SHYM house, please visit www.heritagecu.com or www.shym.ca.
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Janet Brine
Manager of Marketing
Heritage Credit Union
902-464-7111
[email protected]