The Transitional and Housing Support Program is offered to all women who access the shelter. These women include those in the community who are unable to access the shelter as temporary housing. Safety planning is an ongoing process with all women who access the Transitional and Housing Support Program. Safety plans are done at different access points of service: during crisis calls, community client appointments, entering the shelter, exiting the shelter, child witness group and follow-up.
The Transitional and Housing Support Program fosters empowerment, independence and the belief that women can overcome their barriers based on their inner strengths. The transitional plan is a work in progress that includes the women’s participation in achieving a life free from abuse. The program assists in attaining housing either market rent or rent geared to income, referrals to legal services, counseling, community resources, child witness treatment program, and an understanding of the continuum of forms of abuse. As well, the program offers a bi-weekly sharing circle with the N’Swakamok Native Friendship Centre for all women who reside in the shelter. The circle offers traditional teachings, drumming, smudging, healing and an opportunity to share.
The Transitional and Housing Support Program includes opportunities for women to participate in many events and groups during the year that promote change, equity, equality, and in reaching their full potential. These include Week without Violence, International Women’s Day, Sister In Spirit, and others.