We began our conversations with women by talking a little about ourselves and describing the programs that are available to them at the community centre. Then we asked if they thought any of these programs could help women. With the exception of five women who responded negatively, all the others emphasized how important it is to provide a space for women to interact with other women, to share issues and concerns in a supportive environment. Their reasons ranged from providing a support group for women who are experiencing violence in their lives to providing a place for social activities.

Support groups for women were seen as very important. Some felt support groups would help women develop more self-confidence, and better self-concepts, while others simply stated that women have a lot going on in their lives and need a place to go to talk. One woman said, "If I became involved in a program it would be to interact with other women who have similar interests. This would give me someone else to talk to besides the kids."

Some women wanted somewhere to go for advice on dealing with their children. Support for women who are being abused and for women who are dealing with alcoholism or who have "problems at home" were mentioned as particular needs. Nine women identified Al-Anon as an important program at the Centre.

Women said the literacy program was important, mainly to upgrade education and increase self-esteem, but also to meet other people. The pre-school program was valued by women because it allowed them to go to work or to join in the learners programs. Some women also specified that it is good for the children, allowing them to mix with other children and helping them to learn.

Several women talked about how convenient it was to have a public health clinic at the centre.

Reflections - Mid March 1992

This week one of the staff was a little depressed. She didn't feel like going out with the survey but said, "I'm glad I did because the women really wanted to talk."

This door-to-door visiting is hard to do because the women's stories are so heart-wrenching. There is so much poverty and abuse that we are often left feeling helpless. The only thing we can do is listen, lend support and encourage the women to come to the Centre and get involved.

When I did a similar survey in 1986, I often had the same feelings of helplessness. I knew a lot of these women and I was so surprised that they were living in poverty and being abused. It just blew my mind because these are the same women who always seem to have it together. I have learned that this is a wall most women put up to hide what is really going on in their lives.