Elizabeth House: Transforming lives in Calgary, two generations at a time

Michelle Haywood, Program Manager

A Personal Calling

Michelle Haywood has been with Elizabeth House since 2007, initially joining as a volunteer coordinator. Her passion for the ministry is palpable.

“I myself was a very young single mom. When I heard about this place that provided care and support for young moms, it felt like a calling,” shares Michelle, Program Manager at Elizabeth House.  ​

Elizabeth House. was founded by the Sisters of Charity of St. Louis in response to a surge in teenage pregnancies. The Sisters recognized a pressing need for housing and support for young mothers, leading to the creation of Elizabeth House.

Elizabeth House, a transitional home in Calgary, offers a lifeline to pregnant and parenting women experiencing homelessness. This ministry, which has been a vital support for hundreds of women and children, has been helping generations thrive since 1996. 

Over the years, the ministry has evolved significantly. Initially operating out of a small duplex, Elizabeth House has moved several times to accommodate growing demand. “We’ve supported approximately 600 women and children,” Michelle notes. The Diocese of Calgary has played a crucial role in this evolution, providing financial and administrative support. This has allowed Elizabeth House to offer 24/7 care and expand its services. 

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Success Stories and Challenges

One of the key strengths of Elizabeth House is its ability to offer long-term stays, allowing mothers to stabilize their lives. Michelle shares several success stories that illustrate the transformative power of extended support. “Women who typically would have had their child apprehended at birth or struggled considerably after birth are now able to stay with us and gain foundational skills,” she explains. This holistic approach helps women build lifelong resilience.

Michelle also acknowledges the diverse backgrounds of the residents. “Since COVID, we’ve had three women complete their post-secondary degrees while staying with us. Two of them graduated with honours,” she proudly states. 

Women who typically would have had their child apprehended at birth or struggled considerably after birth are now able to stay with us and gain foundational skills."

Funding remains a constant challenge. “We do a lot with a little, mostly relying on private donations,” Michelle says. Despite these challenges, people have stepped up and provided generous support. The Schultz Family Foundation, for example, has been a significant supporter, funding various projects and events.

Future Goals and Volunteer Opportunities

Looking ahead, Elizabeth House has several exciting projects in the pipeline. They are fundraising for a new van to replace their aging Toyota Matrix and planning to repaint the entire house. Michelle is particularly excited about their volunteer programs. One such program pairs volunteers with residents to offer guidance and support. “These volunteers work closely with the women to get to know them heart-to-heart, support them in instrumental ways, and follow them when they leave.”

Elizabeth House dreams of expanding to a purpose-built facility with more rooms. “Last year, we were only able to house 4.7% of all applicants,” Michelle notes. A new facility would allow Elizabeth House to support more women and children, providing them with the stability they need to rebuild their lives.

Jen Schultz, Volunteer

Revamping the Digital Presence

Jen Schultz, through her volunteer work, has been essential in modernizing Elizabeth House’s digital presence. Her involvement began when her family foundation connected with Elizabeth House through the Knights of Columbus. Recognizing the need for a website overhaul, Jen brought her expertise in marketing to the project.

“The old website was very black and white and not as hopeful as it could have been,” Jen recalls. The new website features a warm, earthy colour palette and an inviting design. ​“We wanted to make it really clear and actionable,” she explains.

​The redesigned website includes essential features like a safe exit button for women in unsafe situations and clear application instructions. It also provides detailed information on how to get involved. ​“The team feels like the new website truly reflects the welcoming environment of Elizabeth House.”

A Call to Action

Elizabeth House thrives thanks to the unwavering support of the Calgary community. Michelle and Jen both recognize the importance of raising awareness about the work of this ministry. “Come get to know us,” Michelle invites. Whether through prayers, donating, volunteering, or simply spreading the word, there are many ways to support this vital ministry. “Also, we’re hiring!”

Elizabeth House’s journey reflects the power of compassion and community. Through their dedicated efforts, they provide not just shelter, but a brighter future for Calgary’s mothers and their children. As Michelle concludes, “We are helping two generations at a time.”

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Louis Meléndez is a Case Instructor for the Ecclesiastical Tribunal of the Diocese of Calgary. He and his wife Cathleen are members of the Spanish Community at Holy Spirit Parish in Calgary, where they serve in the music ministry. He is currently studying Canon Law at St. Paul University in Ottawa. His hobbies include translating works from the early Church Fathers into Spanish, playing the piano, and learning languages.