A young St. Catharines mother and her one year old daughter have been given a leg up thanks to the delivery of Niagara's first Enercare Fresh Start Package.
Shaniqua, the first recipient in the Niagara Region, moved into Bethlehem Housing with her newborn just over a year ago seeking assistance.
With the help of a personal support worker she developed a personal growth and transition plan and has now secured permanent housing of her own.
The Enercare Fresh Start package contains simple necessities, comfort items and small luxuries to help families get back on their feet.
Shaniqua's package includes new bedding for herself and educational toys for her daughter which she says she couldn't afford on her own.
The Enercare Fresh Start Program is working in partnership with Bethlehem Housing and Support Services in Niagara to support 20 families in the community.