New shelter for women and children leaving violence opening in Penticton

Women and children leaving violence will soon have more safe places to regroup, recover and build a better future in the Okanagan area.

“Women and children need to know there are safe places, compassionate care, and hope when they make the decision to leave an abusive situation,” said Selina Robinson, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing.

“We’re working hard to make sure women and children have homes to provide new stable foundations on which they can rebuild their lives, homes like the ones coming soon to Penticton.”

The project is funded through the Building BC: Women's Transition Fund and will provide units for up to 36 women and children leaving violence.

The fund, a $734-million investment over 10 years, will build 1,500 transition housing, second-stage housing, and long-term housing spaces for women and children leaving violence.

The first round of investments will see more than 300 new homes built through 13 projects in communities throughout the province.

“All efforts to assist and improve the lives of those in need are a welcome addition to the available housing supports in Penticton,” said John Vassilaki, mayor, City of Penticton. “This particular project not only provides critical housing, it also creates access to the equally important support services that assist women and their families.”

The South Okanagan Women in Need Society (SOWINS) will manage the day-to-day operations and will oversee the resident selection process.

Women’s transition houses are staffed 24/7 and provide safe, short-term shelter and supports. A typical stay is for 30 days.

Residents will receive support services, including access to health services, counselling, resumé building, interview skills and workshops, such as building healthy relationships, financial literacy and self-care.