LifeHouse Story and Founding Members

This encounter with such a vulnerable individual remains the incentive and momentum for local women, Margaret Fowler and Susan DesRoche, to pursue efforts toward securing a much needed women’s shelter and transitional housing in Summerside.

The Committee has established LifeHouse, as the chosen name for the future shelter. The inspiration for this chosen name came from the symbolism represented by a lighthouse – a symbol of human presence and safety, especially in the face of adversity, a source of guidance for all who needs it, a representation of protection, illumination, never-ceasing watchfulness and steadfast endurance.

These are exceptionally difficult times for many individuals in our Province and one cannot help but speculate that the situation related to homelessness, family violence, mental health and wellness, etc. will escalate during these times. We choose to be proactive as opposed to reactive in planning for the potential need for increased services. We will continue our efforts to secure funding to see a safe shelter and transitional housing established locally so that no woman or child navigates the rough waters of life without shelter and support.

  • Jody Sentner

    LifeHouse Coordinator

    Jody Sentner was born and raised in Summerside PEI. After graduating Three Oaks Senior High,…

  • Margie Fowler

    LifeHouse Founding Member

    Margie is a founding member of LifeHouse Transitional Housing and Emergency Shelter for Women and…

  • Susan DesRoche

    LifeHouse Founding Member

    Susan has lived in Summerside, PE with her family for the past 33 years. She…

Jody Sentner

LifeHouse Coordinator

Jody Sentner was born and raised in Summerside PEI. After graduating Three Oaks Senior High, she moved to Calgary Alberta before returning and beginning her almost fifteen-year career as a Correctional Officer at the Provincial Correctional Centre in Charlottetown. While working as a Correctional Office, Jody realized her passion and ability to successfully advocate for the vulnerable population. Deciding it was time for a change, Jody took a leave of absence as a Correctional Officer and was employed by the John Howard Society in multiple roles for approximately two years. Jody’s final role before accepting LifeHouse Coordinator with the BGC, was Housing and Resource Coordinator for Addressing Homelessness PEI, initiated by Reaching Home: Canada’s Homelessness Strategy. Jody’s goal at LifeHouse Emergency Shelter for both her and staff, is to continue advocating, supporting, and empowering those in need.

Margie Fowler

LifeHouse Founding Member

Margie is a founding member of LifeHouse Transitional Housing and Emergency Shelter for Women and Children. She is the mother of two adult children, Jennifer and Jonathan, and grandmother to twin boys Liam and Ewan.

Although she has not lived her entire life in Summerside, she was born and raised here. Prior to returning to PEI in 2015, she belonged to a transient military family having lived in Germany and various cities across Canada. During the years, she has been employed within the non-profit sector, two provincial government departments, and one federal department. Her educational focus throughout the years included Early Childhood Education and Child and Youth Studies.

In February, 2019, an incident occurred on the boardwalk below her condominium involving a vulnerable young woman requiring shelter and assistance. It quickly became evident to her that there was no designated shelter/housing for women available within Summerside. Recognition of the need for such services provided the incentive and momentum for them to strive to establish safe housing for women and their children. Supported by BGC Summerside and a small LifeHouse Advisory Committee, three years of effort and commitment has focused on developing a model for service delivery and raising funds to enable the establishment and operation of LifeHouse. She is thrilled to be a part of this initiative.

She wants to leave the future residents of LifeHouse with this Irish Blessing.

May your troubles be less and your blessings be more.

And nothing but happiness come through your door.

Susan DesRoche

LifeHouse Founding Member

Susan has lived in Summerside, PE with her family for the past 33 years. She is originally from Ontario.

Susan is employed by a Construction Firm and holds the position of Office Manager. Her background is in Accounting. She is an organized lady who shuffles many roles in her daily life (Wife, Mother, Grandmother, Friend and Career Woman).

She has been a volunteer with BGC Summerside since 1997 in many capacities. She also volunteers for Summerside Minor Hockey as Treasurer and Summerside Skating Club as a Director.

LifeHouse Transitional Housing and Shelter for Women and Children is very near and dear to her heart. She feels very blessed to be involved with this initiative and looks forward to what the future brings to LifeHouse and our women and children.

Susan loves to walk her dog Rosie, attend yoga and fitness classes and kayak. Self care, meditation and flowers are her passion.

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