THE OBJECTIVE OF THE TRANSITIONAL SUPPORT & HOUSING PROGRAM
The objective of this service is to provide women with support in all areas necessary to make the transition from abuse and violence to a safer living situation.
DESCRIPTION OF THE TRANSITIONAL SUPPORT & HOUSING PROGRAM
Although Bethesda House provides women with help to obtain and maintain housing, we do not actually provide housing (other than the temporary emergency shelter) and we do not have direct or special access to affordable housing. What we are able to do is help women understand and navigate through Durham Region’s Housing system, help complete the forms required to access housing and support the women through the process. The Transitional Support & Housing Worker (TSHW) is also able to assist women investigate market-value housing options.
The TSHW provides other services, including
Help developing a Transition/Safety plan
Help identifying financial options
Assistance connecting with legal support
Assistance obtaining identification
Accompaniment and support for appointments with the police, CAS, lawyers, etc. as chosen by the woman
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New women entering our shelter per month
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Mothers and children entering our shelter per month
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Calls per month to the crisis support line
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Are turned away due to shelter capacity
Why we do what we do
What Women Say About Bethesda House
The violence and abuse I endured at the hands of my husband left me trapped and powerless. It took every ounce of courage I had to leave, but the moment I walked through the doors of Bethesda House, I knew my daughter and I were safe. I finally had hope. At Bethesda House, safety wasn't just a word, it was a promise they kept. The staff created a supportive environment that allowed us to heal and rebuild our lives. I was able to focus on my daughters well-being and my recovery, knowing that I would never be hurt again.
S & E
Bethesda House provided me with a way out from my trafficking situation. They helped me create a plan to leave and kept me safe when I was terrified for my life. I have suffered and found myself trapped and sexually exploited all over Durham Region. The staff helped me feel safe, and didn't judge me. They validated my experiences and gave me tools to re-build my self-esteem. They supported me with my nightmares and spent a lot of time with me when I couldn't sleep. I can't imagine where I would be without their support- thank you.
J
Bethesda House is more than a shelter, it is a home. I had to escape my family's home because they were abusing me and stealing my money, I went to Bethesda House. I felt safe for the first time in a long time. I was able to sleep, share my experience of being taken advantage of and hurt by my adult son, and learnt tools to move forward in my life. They helped me to relocate and I now live free and feel safe in my very own home.
Hazel
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Bethesda House welcomes and encourages applications from, and provides equal student opportunities to, male and female students, Aboriginal peoples, persons with disabilities, and members of visible minorities. Accommodation will be provided for students with disabilities upon request and if at all possible. Bethesda House is an LGBTQ positive space.
Why we do what we do
