Elizabeth Ann Kinsella, M.S.M., Ottawa, Ont.
Meritorious Service Medal (civil division)
Sister Betty Ann was the driving force behind the creation of the Youville Centre in Ottawa. Thanks to her commitment and fundraising skills, this non-profit charitable organization opened its doors in 1987. The Centre offered the first program in Canada to address the comprehensive needs for education, child care, housing and support services of young, single mothers and their children. In response to the overwhelming success of the program, and despite limited resources, Sister Betty Ann is planning the opening of a second location in the near future.