The Government of Saskatchewan is investing nearly a million dollars into second-stage housing to support women and children who are trying to leave violence and abuse behind.
The $876,000 investment will be used as operational funding to support second-stage housing, as well as counselling services, for those trying to get away from bad situations.
According to the government, second-stage housing provides “safe, affordable, longer-term support (generally between 18 and 24 months) for women and their children trying to break the cycle of violence and help them rebuild their lives.” Clients also get access to counselling, help finding education or employment, and programs for their children.
Women living in second-stage housing have access to private, furnished living spaces similar to apartments, the government noted, along with access to a variety of programs to help them leave violence and abuse behind as they transition toward permanent, independent living arrangements.
The funding will benefit five shelters, the government said, including SOFIA House in Regina, Adelle House in Saskatoon, YWCA Turning Points in Saskatoon, North East Outreach Support Services in Melfort, and Sapohtewan House in La Ronge.
Tmira Marchment, executive director of SOFIA House, said second-stage housing is an essential component for those escaping violence or abuse.
“SOFIA House and other second-stage shelters provide critical services for families experiencing violence.” Marchment said in a statement.
“We are pleased to see the Government of Saskatchewan commit to operational funding for second-stage shelters and look forward to working together in the future to continue to grow in this very important area.”
Christine Tell, Saskatchewan’s minister of corrections, policing and public safety, said the new investment will help survivors of violence as the government works to improve community safety.
“Violence and abuse have no place in Saskatchewan,” Tell said in a statement.