Yellowknife (Nov 24/06) - A well-known advocacy group in Yellowknife celebrated its 40th anniversary this year, but those involved in the organization won't be resting on their laurels any time soon.

In fact, the Young Women's Christian Association (YWCA) of Yellowknife is looking to purchase a fourth home for people with disabilities.

"We're looking for a four-bedroom with access for a wheelchair," said Lyda Fuller, the YWCA's executive director.

This is a tough prospect when the bedrooms have to be on the first floor, she said.

The YWCA owns three other houses where they support people who need special amenities to live comfortably, said Fuller.

The YWCA offers options for families in need or those looking for emergency housing.

There are 35 units at Rockhill Apartments where low income families can stay up to one year while looking for a permanent place to live.

Rockhill also offers emergency housing.

For those seeking shelter from abusive homes, women and their children can take refuge at the Alison McAteer House in Yellowknife or the Sutherland House in Fort Smith.

But running an organization that offers so many programs to between 800 and 1,000 women and children every year takes many dedicated people, said Fuller.

The YWCA has a staff of about 140.

"We do many of the programs 24/7," Fuller said, adding, "That's about 7,200 shifts a year."

The territorial government is the primary source of funding for the YWCA.

"The bulk of our funding comes from the Yellowknife Health and Social Services Authority, we love them," said Fuller.