A transition house provides temporary accommodation as a safe and secure environment for women and their children who are experiencing domestic violence or are at risk of domestic violence. It is a place of refuge – to give women the time and space to consider their options and make important life decisions.
It is a communal setting with other women and children who share similar experiences and provides the basic necessities such as clothing, meals and personal toiletries. These houses typically have 4-5 bedrooms with 2 beds per room, a communal kitchen, common living room & play areas, and shared bathrooms.
There is access to emotional support, advocacy and referrals to other services. Residents can obtain assistance with immediate practical concerns such as health, legal issues, housing, financial needs, schooling, child care and transportation.
It is a free and confidential service that is staffed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week with trained staff. The stay is usually for a maximum of 30 days.
The majority of funding for staffing and basic operations comes from the government. There is always a shortfall in the budget. That’s where organizations like ours come in – to supply necessities and items of comfort.