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Pacific Region

Grand Opening of Salvation Army's Belkin House

By Lisa Bayne, Community Outreach Coordinator, Vancouver Area Parole

Member of Parliament Dr. Hedy Fry addresses the crowd as Salvation Army Captain John P. Murray looks on.

On September 10, 2004 the Salvation Army held a grand opening and dedication of their latest facility, Belkin House. The new structure, which replaces the old Dunsmuir House, will house 30 Correctional Service of Canada (CSC) residents and the Enhanced CRF parole team. The fourth floor of the facility is reserved for CSC and boasts both single rooms and apartment-style, shared accommodation. It also has a dedicated program room that can be used for any number of CSC-related meetings and events. The new kitchen is currently being used for the Cooks Training Program.

The grand opening was very well done with over 200 guests attending. Notable speakers included the Honourable Hedy Fry, M.L.A., Lorne Mayencourt, and the Salvation Mary's Territorial Commander M. Christine MacMillan. Letters of congratulations were read out on behalf of both Prime Minster Paul Martin and Premier Gordon Campbell.

Belkin House has been renamed to reflect the generous contribution of the Morris and Helen Belkin Foundation. It is clear that this brand new facility will serve the community well.