B.C. plans to build 1,500 new women’s shelters across the province

More women and children fleeing violence will have a safe and secure place to go, as the province plans to build 1,500 new supportive homes in B.C.

The funding for the new shelters were announced yesterday by BC Housing, Housing Minister Selina Robinson, and Premier John Horgan.

Through the new Building BC: Women’s Transition Housing Fund, the Province will invest $734 million over the next 10 years to build and operate 1,500 transition houses, safe homes, second-stage and long-term housing.

“Women fleeing abuse need a safe and welcoming place to go, where they can find comfort and security to heal,” said Horgan “Our government is making the first significant investment in transition and supportive housing in 20 years, to give women and children escaping dangerous situations the security and support they need.”

“Fleeing violence often results in poverty and #homelessness for women and their children ... secure, stable housing can provide a foundation for recovery and economic empowerment." READ: https://t.co/pO8FCgQyWV pic.twitter.com/iefgfNt8zM

— BC Housing (@BC_Housing) May 25, 2018

The new housing will include support staff that will provide a range of services, including emotional support and safety planning.

“Fleeing violence often results in poverty and homelessness for women and their children,” said Joanne Baker, executive director, BC Society of Transition Houses. “Secure, stable housing can provide a foundation for recovery and economic empowerment. The reality or risk of homelessness frequently results in women returning to violence – that means the Province’s investment in affordable housing that is dedicated to women and children escaping violence is crucial.”

The new women’s housing will be operated by non-profit providers who specialize in housing and supports for women and children who are experiencing or at risk of violence.

The province, through BC Housing, will select projects based on community need, with the goal of building at least 500 supportive housing units within the next three years, and 1500 over the next decade.