91原创 will receive funding for 15 additional beds and for a second-stage housing unit to help women and children get back on their feet.

Women and children at risk of or leaving violence have access to more safe, secure spaces as 229 new transition and second-stage housing units open on Vancouver Island and in Metro Vancouver.

The $98 million in grants includes $3.1 for 91原创.

鈥淲e, at Ishtar Women鈥檚 Resource Society, are grateful to be moving our Ishtar Transition House to a bright and welcoming new home," said Ishtar Women's Resources Society executive director Julia (Boyle) Davidson. "The new house will enable us to support more women and their children, including a second-stage housing unit.鈥�

The funds will allow the Ishtar to help more people. It already operates two transition houses and has a variety of related programs and services.

鈥淓nsuring women and children leaving violence have access to secure and affordable housing is crucial to keeping them safe and supported as they take their next steps,鈥� said Ravi Kahlon, minister of Housing and Municipal Affairs. 鈥淧eople fleeing violence often struggle to find affordable housing because of complex family situations. Creating nearly 230 new spaces for them isn't just about providing a roof 鈥� it鈥檚 a chance for a fresh start, helping them break free from abuse and transition to healthier, safer lives.鈥�

The spaces include transition beds that will provide women and their children a safe and confidential place to stay for up to 30 days, and second-stage units that enable longer stays for women and children who need stable housing and services. Support staff will provide residents with a range of services, including emotional support and safety planning to make sure women and children receive the help they need during a difficult and stressful time. 

鈥淚ncreasing safety and supports for survivors of gender-based violence is one of the key priorities under B.C.鈥檚 Gender-Based Violence Action Plan,鈥� said Jennifer Blatherwick, parliamentary secretary for gender equity. 鈥淗aving places for women, children and 2SLGBTQIA+ people to go to after leaving violent situations is vital, especially at a time when they need it the most.鈥�

In Metro Vancouver, a total of 99 spaces are open or underway, including in 91原创, Maple Ridge, Richmond, Surrey, and Vancouver

Through Building BC: Women鈥檚 Transition Housing Fund, the Province is working in partnership to deliver and operate 3,000 new transition, second-stage, and long-term affordable housing spaces for women and children. To date, nearly 1,200 units are complete or underway throughout the province. As with all projects for women and children leaving violence, the project addresses have not been disclosed for safety reasons.

Transition housing provides safe, temporary shelter with supports, up to 30 days, for those who need a place to stay after leaving a violent or abusive situation.

Second-stage housing includes services to help women rebuild their independence, including support groups, system navigation and individualized assistance. After a stay in a transition house, people can move to second-stage housing before moving to long-term housing in the community.