Province Invests in Operational Funding for Second Stage Housing

Released on April 4, 2023

The Government of Saskatchewan has committed $876,000 in operational funding over three years to support second stage housing, including intervention and counselling services, for women and their children leaving interpersonal violence and abuse.

"This funding is part of an overall commitment of $27.5 million that we are investing this year to combat the serious, complex issue of interpersonal and sexual violence," Justice and Attorney General Minister Bronwyn Eyre said. "We appreciate the amazing work that our community-based organizations do in this area and thank them for their support, as this important work continues."

Second stage housing provides safe, affordable, longer-term support (generally between 18 and 24 months) for women and their children to break the cycle of violence and help them rebuild their lives. In addition, clients receive counselling, connections to education and employment, and programs for their children.

“Violence and abuse have no place in Saskatchewan,” Corrections, Policing and Public Safety Minister Christine Tell said. “Ensuring safe accommodations for survivors of interpersonal violence and their children is an integral part of our ongoing work to improve community safety across our province.”

Women in second stage housing have access to private, furnished living spaces, much like apartments. They can also access a variety of programming options that support them in their transition to permanent and independent living, free from violence and abuse. Clients pay rent and are responsible for their own living expenses, which allows them to build confidence and independence.

"SOFIA House and other second stage shelters provide critical services for families experiencing violence,” SOFIA House Executive Director Tmira Marchment said. “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."

Funding has been allocated to five second stage shelters across the province, including SOFIA House (Regina), Adelle House (Saskatoon), YWCA Turning Points (Saskatoon), North East Outreach Support Services (Melfort) and Sapohtewan House (La Ronge).

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