Housing

03/15/24 • 27 min

This episode's focus is on the housing crisis, specifically its impact on survivors of intimate partner violence. The housing crisis in Nova Scotia was particularly exacerbated by COVID-19, especially in rural areas where the challenges of finding affordable housing are even more dire due to the lack of public tent communities, and the prevalence of derelict buildings, and un-winterized structures.

The limited availability of housing and exorbitant costs in places like Cape Breton, are discussed as major barriers for gender-based violence survivors trying to escape abusive partners. We hear from support experts that for a wide range of women, of varying financial abilities, the recent housing crisis has made it harder than ever to leave a dual income household. Experts and survivors are featured in this episode arriving at the same conclusion; we need affordable housing.

This podcast was made possible by the Transition House Association of Nova Scotia. THANS exists to eliminate violence against women in Nova Scotia. Their organizations provide a full range of support services to women and their children in a safe, supportive environment and provide survivors of violence with opportunities to learn about available resources, and alternatives to facilitate informed personal choices and decisions.

THANS is not 100% government funded by the provincial or federal government. This needs to change. Go to thans.ca to learn how you can help.

This podcast is narrated by Ginger MacPhee, Executive Director at Chrysalis House Association.

Produced by Podstarter.

THANS is not 100% government funded by the provincial or federal government. This needs to change. Go to thans.ca to learn how you can help.

This podcast is narrated by Ginger MacPhee, Executive Director at Chrysalis House Association.

Produced by Podstarter.

Previous Episode

Silent Depression

In this episode, we look into these changes and the increasing demand for support services during post-pandemic economic hardship. "The Silent Depression" is a term used to describe the observed increase of people seeking help for basic needs like food and shelter post COVID-19. The effects of this depression has exasperated the existing shortage of resources aimed to support survivors of gender-based violence. This episode highlights the urgent need for funding, particularly for clients experiencing poverty, unemployment, marginalization, unsafe living situations and lack of support.

Since our last season, the Transition House Association of Nova Scotia has observed a change. As a refresh, THANS is an umbrella organization of violence against women organizations, with 11 members providing services across rural Nova Scotia. Each member is an independent nonprofit organization and maintains its own staff to provide services to women and children in their communities. Communities needs which may include safe shelter 24 hour crisis lines, outreach services and or second stage housing to women and their children who have experienced violence or abuse.

THANS is not 100% government funded by the provincial or federal government. This needs to change. Go to thans.ca to learn how you can help.

This podcast is narrated by Ginger MacPhee, Executive Director at Chrysalis House Association.

Produced by Podstarter.

Next Episode

Safety

Host, and Director of the Chrysalis Transition House Association, Ginger MacPhee is back in this episode; delving into the complex issue of safety, as it relates to the stark realities of gender-based violence survivors. We hear from survivors and experts who provide insight into the various forms of abuse, and the lasting impact it has on mental and emotional well-being. The fear of post-separation violence looms large, with half of all ex-partner homicides occurring within two months of leaving the relationship.

Despite efforts to provide safety, challenges persist, particularly in rural areas where resources are limited. In this episode we highlight the vulnerabilities faced by shelters, underscoring the need for adequate funding and support. However, amidst the adversity, there is hope.

THANS is not 100% government funded by the provincial or federal government. This needs to change. Go to thans.ca to learn how you can help.

This podcast is narrated by Ginger MacPhee, Executive Director at Chrysalis House Association.

Produced by Podstarter.