B.C. announces new transition housing for women fleeing violence

The B.C. government Wednesday announced funding for new transition housing for women and children fleeing violence.

The 280 homes will be delivered in 12 projects around the province. It’s the first announcement from the government’s Building BC: Women’s Transition Housing Fund, a $734-million investment over 10 years to build 1,500 transition, second-stage and affordable housing spaces for women and children escaping violent situations.

The first round of projects includes up to 10 beds in Vancouver operated by the Salvation Army for women who have experienced exploitation and human trafficking. Projects are also planned for Burnaby, Chilliwack, Invermere, Kamloops, Kelowna, Kitimat, Prince George, Smithers, Nanaimo, Port Alberni and Langford.

“These first projects will make a tremendous impact in the lives of women and children who need our help,” housing minister Selina Robinson said in a press release. “For too long, a lack of investment has meant women and children looking for help at a desperate time have found themselves with nowhere to turn. This cannot continue. These homes are just the beginning of those to come over the next 10 years, as we work with non-profit partners to ensure women and children have safe places to regroup, rebuild and reclaim their lives.”

The new housing will be operated by non-profit providers in each community that specialize in housing and supports for women and children who are experiencing, or are at risk of, violence. The projects will also include a range of services, including emotional support and safety planning, and new affordable rental housing for women ready to move on to more permanent homes.

“Fleeing violence often results in poverty and homelessness for women and their children of they can’t access safe, secure housing,” said Joanne Baker, executive director of the BC Society of Transition Houses. “The reality or risk of homelessness frequently results in women returning to violence. The investment in affordable housing through the Women’s Transition Housing Fund that is dedicated to women and children escaping violence is crucial.”

Article by Courier staff / Vancouver Courier