The construction on the Southwest Youth Emergency Shelter (SWYES), Dorie's House remains an ongoing project on the corner of Herbert Street and 2nd Avenue North East.

The lot was vacant for almost nine years before construction began on the SWYES. The surrounding neighborhood to Dorie's House is mostly residential, as well as some businesses.

Damien Westbury, son of Dorie lives across the street from the future home of Dorie's House and says, there has been a positive attitude among the neighborhood for the shelter being built in their area. At first, people thought it was a halfway house and it was going to be troubled children living there. Once people find out what it is all about, which is keeping kids safe that do not have a place to stay then everyone jumps on board.

Damien says that it is amazing to be living across the street from Dorie's House. It reminds Damien from when he was a young boy, as his mother always took other children into their home in order to help them out and keep them safe. It was always a full house Damien said.

Bill Blydo, a neighbor to Dorie's House says that everyone is on board. He feels that it is a good thing and the neighborhood feels the same way. These people do need help, and if we can help younger people then why not.

Dorie's House is on track to be completed by mid October. After construction is finished Tom and Charmaine Westbury will be handing over the keys to SWYES Executive, Betty McDougall. Betty is in charge of the next phase, which includes hiring staff and getting the house ready for the youth.

Email char@lensplumbing.ca if you are interested in becoming a volunteer at Dorie's House. Donations can be made at the following local businesses:

  • Pioneer Co-Op Lumber
  • Home Hardware
  • Swift Current Building Supplies
  • Delta Aggregates
  • Kruse Glass
  • Lens Plumbing and Heating
  • Innovation Credit Union