Second Stage Residential
Program
Women who choose to leave an abusive relationship have the option to access safer, affordable housing for themselves and their children.
Transitional Outreach, which includes the Second Stage Residential Program and counselling support, is available to qualifying women.
Second Stage Housing
There are eight unfurnished family units and four single units in this townhouse complex. Each is equipped with a fridge, stove, washer, and dryer, and are geared-to-income.
Units offer a private patio with access to a large fenced yard , complete with a play structure, creating a community to support the development and growth of women and their families. Residents can meet regularly and enjoy the benefits of support, socialization, and networking. The program gives women an environment in which to commit to building a safer and violence-free future.
How it Works
Accommodations through the Second Stage Residential Program can be provided for up to one year, as families rebuild their lives.
Occupancy is granted through application only, and if accepted, women must agree to participate in a support program and sign an occupancy contract.
As the year comes to an end, staff advocate for women to move into longer-term Ontario Housing units or support women in making the transition to market rent housing.
The Women's Centre Free Family & Criminal Court Support Program
Navigating the Court system can be difficult, confusing, and overwhelming.
For those who have experienced abuse in their relationships, this process is intensified by safety concerns and increased complexities with child custody, access, and support.
Available Assistance:
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Support and advocacy in navigating the family court system
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Provides support to victims navigating the criminal court system
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Information about the family court process
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Accompaniment to family court proceedings and lawyer appointments
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Safety planning, especially related to court appearances
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Assistance with recording the history of abuse for court
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Debrief and discuss court results and next steps
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Support with completion of paperwork and lawyer’s requests
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Referrals and advocacy with community supports and services
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Information and practical support in accessing Legal Aid
Help for Children and Youth
Help for
Children
and Youth
A calming relaxation and play room suitable for children and youth, an outdoor play area, and access to toys, books, games, movies and computers help children to feel more at home in their new surroundings.
At The Women’s Centre we work to ensure that children who have experienced or witnessed violence receive mental health support through a trauma-informed lens.
Our counselling and support program is available for children and youth who have witnessed or experienced violence in their home.
Children and youth can be seen at the Second Stage Housing site in Owen Sound, in their school, or at other locations in the Grey Bruce community. Supports for mothers are also available.
Referrals can be made by a parent, school, or a staff member. Priority status is based on urgency, circumstances, and availability of resources. Our organization will obtain consent from families to share information with other community organizations if needed, to provide additional support.
