For immediate release

The Children's Aid Society of Hamilton is on the move…

HAMILTON, ON, September 27 - The Children's Aid Society of Hamilton announced today that it will be relocating its main and three branch offices to 26 Arrowsmith Road, in Hamilton's east end on October 4, 2004. The move will produce annual savings of $400,000 beginning in 2005.

Dominic Verticchio, Executive Director said, "This location will almost triple our capacity, while costing 50% less than constructing a new facility or leasing. Precious dollars saved will be reinvested in children through new programs and expansion of existing services."

CAS offices at 143 Wentworth Street South, 10 Delaware Avenue, 447 Main Street East and 225 King William Street will be closed to the public from October 1-4, 2004, however the Society will have a team of staff in place to respond to emergencies. The telephone number for emergency service will be 905-522-8053.

The introduction of the Provincial Child Welfare Reform agenda has resulted in the Society experiencing unprecedented growth, both in the number of new staff and service delivery expectations. With over 340 full-time and part-time employees, Hamilton CAS is now one of the largest of 53 agencies providing child welfare services in Ontario.

"This facility will improve accessibility for our clients by providing a continuum of care, services and programs under one roof. With the additional space we look forward to expanding programs so that we can do even more for children at risk," said Mr. Verticchio. Described as a "centre for children at risk", the facility includes on-site medical and dental services, a child-friendly interview room for the Child Abuse Branch of the Hamilton Police Service, quiet and secure areas for supervised family visits, and a not-for profit community day care centre.

Other features include storage areas for clothing, diapers, blankets and other basic necessities for children who are taken into emergency care. An on-site demonstration kitchen has also been added to assist parents in learning the basics of meal preparation and good nutrition for their families.

The Society purchased the 156,000 square foot facility in 2003 at a cost of $4.5 million.

"Ultimately and most importantly, this facility will enable us to better serve vulnerable children in our community," he said.

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For more information, please contact:
Dianne Pearson
Manager of Communications & Development
905-522-1121 ext. 2110