The staff at Agape House in Steinbach are thrilled to be back in their shelter after being displaced for over seven months during renovations.

Executive Director Pam Hadder says they see about 200 clients in a residential and non-residential capacity each year. While in a smaller, temporary location for most of the last year, Hadder says it caused some stress financially. "It affected our capacity with our residential programming, that also affects our per diem income so it's been challenging. It was supposed to be only 3 or 4 months, and when we moved back there were things that were not as they should be."

Hadder says being displaced was also stressful for the staff while working with a reduced capacity and having less funding to do the job they do. When they received a cheque for $8,418 as well as gift cards, and many boxes of new products, through the annual Shoppers Drug Mart Love You campaign, Hadder says it was a thrilling boost to the staff.

"We are a small staff with 15 employees who serve the biggest catchment area in the province, working with family violence. They are an exceptional group of women who really love and care for people. So when the community rallies together and sees the work we do, and how important it is, is a wonderful support."

Hadder notes, public awareness of their services is as valuable as the generous donations they receive.