A Calgary woman is suing the Salvation Army for $300,000 in retributions in connection to the broken ankle she suffered on the charity’s property.
In the lawsuit, Heather Judd says she slipped on a patch of ice outside of the Women’s Integrated Supportive Housing location in Shaganappi in January. In addition to the fractured ankle, Judd says she has suffered depression, anxiety and stress as a result of the fall.
If the courts determine the Salvation Army is at fault, the costs would likely be covered by insurance. Officials with the Salvation Army declined to comment on the matter.
Representatives of charitable organizations in the Calgary area say a portion of their donations are used to cover administrative expenses including liability insurance.
“Every good organization makes sure that they have things in place to mitigate risks and to respond to risks,” says Lucy Miller, CEO of the United Way of Calgary and Area.
“Getting the dollar from their pocket into providing that service to the homeless person involves a number of other costs that are very legitimate and, in fact, are essential that organizations have to incur,” said Katherine Van Kooy, president and CEO of Calgary Chamber of Voluntary Organizations.
Kurt Moran, who had the contract for snow removal on the property, has also been named in the lawsuit. As a private contractor, he knows the importance of proper insurance.
“If you’re not insured, you’re bankrupt,” said Moran. “If you are insured, it still doesn’t feel good and your premiums will probably go up, very likely go up.”
Attempts to discuss the lawsuit with Heather Judd were unfruitful. The plaintiff’s legal representative confirms the lawsuit is going forward but declined interview requests regarding the case.
With files from CTV's Bridget Brown
