Being a single mother is one of the most difficult jobs faced by women and statistics indicate that one out of everynine women isproviding for her children on her own.
According to the most recent Statistics Canada data, the after-tax income of lone-parent families headed by women was about $27,000. More than 40 per cent of single mothers in Canada live on less than $10 per hour.
Yet despite the bleak figures, support avenues are available for these women the Open Door Society of Squamish is providing a four-week workshop series entitled "Inspiring Single Mothers" to allow mothers to reflect on their values and move forward in their lives.
"If we can encourage, inspire, direct and assist these moms tohave hope and a vision for their future, we know the ripple effects will also give direction to their children, their familiesand their futures," said branch co-ordinator Lisa Oakes.
Founded in 1976 in the Lower Mainland, the Open Door Society's mission is to empower single mothers through emotional, physical and spiritual support. The Squamish branch opened its doors in September 2009 and Oakes said one of its aims is to bring in diverse presenters "whoteach, instruct and inspirethe single mothers in our community to work towards obtainable goals and getting out of the very difficult financial struggles that these women face.
"As I was once a single mother, I know the importance offinding support and encouragement," Oakes said. "When we can share life with other motherswhoare dealing and struggling with the same issues, we don't feel so alone or discouraged.We can lift each other up andsee value in each and every one of us.This workshop covers so many avenues that mothers face and I believe that creating an extraordinary life is possible for each and every one of them."
Single mother Melanie Cochrane said she is thrilled to be able to come to the workshop and "wouldn't have missed it for anything."
"I've been involved with Open Door since they opened up and it's been a real saving grace," she explained.
Jennifer Deane, workshop facilitator and personal coach, said the focus of the workshop is "to bring single mothers together to discuss motherhood beyond the logistics that we always discuss."
She added that the objective is to help single mothers re-connect with their personal values and the "big picture items that we really need to look into once in a while." Featuring a variety of self-reflection and group activities, the Inspiring Single Mothers workshop provides mothers with time away from the relentless demands of parenting, in a supportive and caring environment.
Darcy Reimer, pastor of the River Church, had the vision to bring the Open Door Society to Squamish and he can relate to the mothers through direct experience. "I came and talked to the single mums on what it was like to be a boy growing up in a single mother home environment," he said. "Sometimes it's good to hear from that perspective what it was like and what are some of the challenges that the kids will face."
For more information on the Open Door Society's workshops and events, contact Oakes on (604) 848-1848 or email [email protected].
The Open Door Society opens its doors to single mothers every Monday, from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., at the Mountain Valley Mission Church at 37739 Second Ave. in downtown Squamish. Free, licensed daycare is available.
