Abbotsford celebrated the official opening of the Christine Lamb residence last week, a home for women who are at risk of being homeless.
Women’s resource society chair Ellen Boyes says in addition to a safe home, the residence provides supportive services for women who need them.
“We don’t tell them what they need, we ask them what they need. And that’s the important difference in the program that we have here is that we’re not imposing anything on these women. We have rules, we have guidelines, but we’re asking them to tell us what is going to make your life better.”
Darla Rasmussen is one of 41 women living there and says the residence has meant so much to her.
“It’s given me some empowerment, it’s given me some independence. I’ve been surrounded with encouragement and love from the staff. It’s brought to my life a home for my children and I, and it’s brought be back to the community where I grew up.”
Rasmussen says women in transition can really struggle with finding a safe place to live and to have a place like this is amazing.