House of Sophrosyne fundraiser honoured
Treatment centre for women names new facility after ‘great’ supporter
The House of Sophrosyne celebrated its 40th anniversary Tuesday by naming its new building after the woman who has spearheaded fundraising efforts for the facility ’s renovation and expansion. The building, a former elementary school at 5305 Adstoll Ave., will be known as the House of Sophrosyne Lisa Tayfour Building for Recovery.
“Lisa has been a great support to the House of Sophrosyne,” executive director Karen Waddell said at the organization’s annual general meeting. “I think the thing that really stands out for me is she’s been touched by addictions in her family. So she knows what other people are going through, just like I have been touched by addictions in my family. You have to feel a cause in order to really be dedicated and devoted to that cause.” Tayfour has helped raise $1.1 million of the $3.5 million goal. “It’s been something that I’ve been working hard on — trying to bring awareness to the situation of addictions, and also raise money,” said Tayfour. “It’s not been easy. When you’re trying to raise money for a disease that people don’t quite understand, it’s been a long haul.
“But I’m really honoured and I’m looking forward to moving ahead and continue on with the support. Not only from a financial aspect but also just trying to raise awareness to what it is that House of Sophrosyne does for our community and for women.” Waddell said the timeline for expansion depends on when the money is raised.
When the work is done, the facility will offer 30 beds — double what House of Sophrosyne has now — along with childcare, family rooms, and day and evening programs.