The Government of Saskatchewan announced that it had committed $876,000 in operational funding over three years to support second-stage housing.

The funding includes intervention and counselling services for women and their children, leaving interpersonal violence and abuse.

SOFIA House Executive Director Tmira Marchment said this funding helps them provide critical services.

“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.”

Women in second-stage housing have access to private, furnished living spaces like apartments. They can also access various programming options that support their transition to permanent and independent living, free from violence and abuse. That includes counselling, connections to education and employment, and programs for their children.

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).