40 new safe and secure transitional homes for women and children escaping violence are under construction in Courtenay.
The homes, which will be situated within a three-story building, will provide second-stage housing for women, including transgender women, as well as non-binary and Two-Spirit people and children fleeing a violent environment.
Second-stage housing provides short-term accommodation with on-site support for women and their dependent children fleeing violence, with residents living in the units for 6 to 18 months before moving to more permanent housing.
These homes will include a mix of studio, one, two and three-bedroom homes, including five fully wheelchair-accessible units as well as access to a secure, outdoor children’s play area.
Rental rates will be calculated at 30% of the resident’s income or the provincial shelter rate for those who are receiving income or disability assistance.
“These new second-stage homes in Courtenay will help women and their families rebuild their lives in safety and security, free from violence,” said Ronna-Rae Leonard, MLA for Courtenay-Comox.
“Thank you to the Comox Valley Transition Society for working with us to provide another housing option for families in need.”
The building will be managed by the Comox Valley Transition Society (CVTS) who will offer supports such as life-skills training, crisis counselling and poverty-reduction services to women and children living in the homes.
“The Comox Valley Transition Society is pleased to see this much-needed second-stage housing for women and their dependent children underway,” said Heather Ney, executive director, CVTS.
“This housing will increase the safety of those experiencing intimate partner violence and sexual assault, and will provide a place to land after an urgent stay at the transition house.”
The homes are funded through the Province’s Building BC: Women’s Transition Housing Fund, a $734-million investment over 10 years to build and operate 1,500 transition housing, second-stage housing, and long-term housing spaces for women and children leaving violence.
Construction is expected to be complete in spring 2023.
