The opening of a new housing development is giving women and their children fleeing violence access to almost 20 safe homes in Greater Victoria.
The development, funded through BC Housing, will provide seven second-stage spaces and 12 permanent affordable apartments for women as well as two-spirit and non-binary people leaving an abusive situation.
The second-stage housing provides safe short-term housing and is typically used after a stay in a transition house. Folks can stay in the units while they prepare for independent living or move into the permanent affordable apartment.
“These new homes will provide vulnerable women and children in Victoria with a safe haven surrounded by the supports and services that can help them rebuild their lives,” said Minister of Housing Ravi Kahlon, in a statement.
The Cridge Centre for the Family is responsible for managing the building and will provide residents with an array of support services, including life skills training, crisis counselling, and poverty-reduction programs.
Joanne Linka, manager of communication and fund development at the Cridge Centre, said that affordable and safe housing is essential in supporting women leaving dangerous abusive situations.
“Without appropriate housing and supports, women have to choose between living in a violent situation and homelessness. No one should ever be forced to decide between being abused or being homeless,” she said in the same statement.
Residents, some of whom already started moving into the homes in September, will pay either 30 per cent of their income for rent or, for those receiving income or disability assistance, the provincial shelter rate.
Inside the building, there is a mix of one- and two-bedroom units, as well as office and amenity space.
Its location has been withheld to protect the residents.
Linka said they currently have an extensive wait list for housing internally and have been working through the list for appropriate candidates. Applications are being taken online at cridge.org/supportive-transitional-housing.
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