Housing Services

My Sister’s Place Unveils 55 New Safe Homes for Women and Children in Prince George

In a significant stride toward providing sanctuary for women and children escaping violence, My Sister’s Place has opened its doors in Prince George, unveiling 55 new safe and affordable homes. This four-building development, a collaborative effort involving BC Housing, Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC), the City of Prince George, and the Prince George and District Elizabeth Fry Society, marks a pivotal step in addressing the housing needs of those seeking refuge from gender-based violence.

A Haven for Transformation

My Sister’s Place encompasses 18 transition home beds, 16 units of second-phase housing, and 21 affordable rental townhomes. The transition and second-phase housing, housed in a standalone building, offer short-term lodging with on-site supports for women, including transgender individuals and non-binary and Two-Spirit persons, along with their dependent children. Transition home stays typically last for 30 days, while residents of second-phase housing find refuge for six to 18 months before transitioning to more permanent housing.

Operational Support by Elizabeth Fry Society

Operated by the Prince George and District Elizabeth Fry Society, My Sister’s Place ensures that comprehensive on-site support services, including crisis intervention and safety planning, are available to residents. This model aims to facilitate a seamless transition for women and children from transition home beds to second-phase units and affordable townhomes.

Affordable Housing

Rent for second-phase housing and townhomes will be calculated at 30% of residents’ income or the provincial shelter rate for those receiving income or disability support. This affordability measure ensures that safe housing remains accessible to those in need, addressing a crucial aspect of the broader issue.

Strategic Collaboration and Funding

This groundbreaking development is part of B.C.’s 10-year, $7-billion housing strategy. Funding from BC Housing, CMHC, the City of Prince George, and the Prince George and District Elizabeth Fry Society has propelled this initiative forward. Since 2017, the Province has funded nearly 34,000 affordable homes across B.C., with over 350 families benefiting in Prince George.

Praise and Commitment

Federal Minister of Housing and Diversity and Inclusion, Ahmed Hussen, underscores the importance of projects like My Sister’s Place in providing essential housing and support. Parliamentary Secretary for Gender Equity, Grace Lore, emphasizes the government’s ongoing commitment to collaborate and open developments that ensure support is consistently available.

Local Impact and Gratitude

Prince George Mayor Lyn Hall expresses pride in the partnership and the security and stability these homes will provide to women and children leaving violent situations. Shannon Smith, Executive Director of the Prince George and District Elizabeth Fry Society, expresses excitement about My Sister’s Place, emphasizing the commitment to providing tailored supports for residents as they embark on rebuilding their lives.

My Sister’s Place stands not just as a physical space but as a beacon of hope and transformation. This collaborative effort exemplifies the power of communities and government bodies coming together to address a critical need. With its diverse range of housing options and comprehensive support services, My Sister’s Place is set to empower the lives of women and children, ensuring they have a safe and secure place to call home.

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