In praise of Auberge Shalom

Last Wednesday, Amanda Honigsburg from Auberge Shalom spoke to members of Golda Meir (Chomedey) Chapter of Montreal Hadassah-WIZO She talked about the shelter, the women who come to it, and how the shelter assists them.

Auberge Shalom was established in 1989 by the National Council of Jewish Women. It is now run independent from that organization. Its principle is Leviticus 19:16 (“you shall not stand by”), and although it has a kosher kitchen and was founded with Jewish women in mind, its doors are open to women and their children of all faiths and backgrounds. Domestic violence and abuse can occur at any age, and Auberge Shalom has taken in women from 18 to 83. They offer a 6 week stay, complete with counseling, and after that the women (and children) can choose to go into a transition home. When women leave for the transition home, they are sent with a box of goodies needed to start with, such as cooking utensils. Donations are often needed for this, so if you would like to give, please call (514) 731-0833.

Auberge Shalom also has a counseling and research centre which can be reached at (514) 485-4783, a volunteer program, and support line through which they offer confidential advice and counseling for women in abusive relationships, 24/7. The number for that line is (514) 731-0833.

Those who attended the meeting were very touched by the stories of women who are hurt and mistreated. They were also truly impressed by the social workers at Auberge Shalom who are helping them.

- Rose B. Swanko

Chomedey, Laval