The BC government has announced that 229 new transition housing spaces have become available on Vancouver Island and in Metro Vancouver for women, 2SLGBTQIA+ people and their children who are escaping violence.
Of the 229 spaces, the Province says 130 are located on the island, while 99 are in the Metro Vancouver area.
“Ensuring 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,” said Ravi Kahlon, Minister of Housing and Municipal Affairs.
“People 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—it’s a chance for a fresh start, helping them break free from abuse and transition to healthier, safer lives.”
Approximately $98 million has been invested in these new transition and second-stage housing spaces through BC Housing.
The funds are going to eight projects, all of which are a part of the Province’s Women’s Transition Housing Fund.
According to the Province, these spaces include beds to provide women and their children a safe and confidential place to stay for up to 30 days, along with second-stage units that enable longer stays for women and children who need stable housing and services.
At the eight housing sites, staff will provide a range of services to the women and children in their care, including emotional supports and safety planning.
“Increasing safety and supports for survivors of gender-based violence is one of the key priorities under BC’s Gender-Based Violence Action Plan,” said Jennifer Blatherwick, Parliamentary Secretary for Gender Equity.
“Having 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.”
BC says that the 130 spaces opened for women, children and 2SLGBTQIA+ people leaving violence include:
- 33 second-stage units in Duncan at the Kw’i Lelum (Rise House), operated by the Cowichan Women Against Violence Society
- 30 second-stage units and 17 transition beds in Nanaimo, operated by Haven Society
- 50 transition beds in the West Shore, operated by Victoria Women’s Transition House Society
In Metro Vancouver, a total of 99 spaces are now open, or underway.
The Province says the goal is to deliver and operate 3,000 new transition, second-stage and long-term affordable housing spaces for women and children.
As of this publication, nearly 1,200 units are complete or underway throughout BC.
