Women and children fleeing domestic violence will soon have increased access to safe refuge and support services in Delta, thanks to a recent purchase of a property by the B.C. government.

This will become the first transition house in the community and will provide housing for eight women and their children.

The Province is investing approximately $1.8 million toward the purchase and renovations of the house, which is expected to be ready for occupancy in April 2017.

BC Housing has issued a Request for Proposals for experienced non-profits interested in operating the transition house.

Women’s transitional housing provides a valuable short-term solution for women and children fleeing domestic violence. Last year, more than 12,300 women and children were assisted by provincially-funded transition houses, second-stage housing and safe homes.

This year, the Province is providing approximately $34.6 million to support more than 830 spaces in transition and safe houses as well as second-stage housing throughout B.C.

Quotes:

Rich Coleman, Minister of Natural Gas Development and Responsible for Housing –

“The purchase of this transition house in Delta will address a need in the community – to provide a haven for women and children fleeing violence. The home will also give them access to the critical supports and services they need to move on to more permanent, secure housing, and ultimately more secure lives.”

Scott Hamilton, MLA for Delta North –

“This provincial investment will ensure women and their children fleeing abuse in the community have a safe and supportive place to live during difficult times. Projects like this are essential in providing support to vulnerable women and their children.”

Lois Jackson, mayor, The Corporation of Delta –

“This will become the first transition house in our community and will provide housing for eight women and their children. Women’s transitional housing provides a valuable short-term solution for women and children fleeing domestic violence.”

Key Facts:

• Since 2001, the B.C. government has invested $4.9 billion to provide affordable housing for low-income individuals, seniors and families.
• More than 104,000 B.C. households benefit from a diverse range of provincial housing programs and services.
• Last year, the B.C. government invested more than $3.6 million to provide subsidized housing and rent supplements for more than 1,000 households in Delta.

Learn More:

For more information and resources for women fleeing violence, please visit: https://www.bchousing.org/housing-assistance/women-fleeing-violence

Follow BC Housing on Twitter: @BC_Housing