Some time ago, IHO was honoured to receive a bequest from the Estate of Virginia Lorraine Stewart. The fund created in her name, the VLS Fund, is used to assist current and former residents of IHO in sustaining a life free from violence.
The VLS Fund is primarily used to support residents with education, health, and wellness. In the 2014-2015 fiscal year, the fund provided $8,331 to support current and former residents with tuition fees for post-secondary education, supplies required for post-secondary education, and examination fees to practice medicine in Canada. In past year, the Fund has also covered the cost of replacing women's identification and enrolling a child in art classes to help her express herself after witnessing violence.
IHO has been honoured to continue the legacy of Virginia Lorraine Stewart. The Fund has allowed us to see the joy on the faces of women who receive its support, knowing they are being given the opportunity to build their new future, free from violence.