Support needed for new housing project for vulnerable women
Right now, there are more than 940 women experiencing homelessness in Edmonton. The streets pose extreme and unique challenges for female-identifying people, who often have to navigate high-risk environments just to access a warm place to sleep.
Women experience more abuse and harm on the streets than men. Since their experiences are different than those of men, women require different services and supports. There aren’t many housing options that provide safe spaces specifically for women in our community.
Our city is facing a homelessness crisis that’s made worse by the COVID-19 pandemic. The past year’s challenges, combined with a lack of housing, put vulnerable women at high risk. Boyle Street Community Services got tired of pushing and waiting for the government to respond to the need for women’s housing.
Last month, Boyle Street Community Services opened a new women’s housing program. Sakihta Kikinaw — Cree for “house of love” — offers 30 low-income housing units for women who are experiencing homelessness and poverty in Edmonton.
Women at Sakihta Kikinaw can access 24/7 support workers, employment and health programs, as well as three meals a day. With individual suites and a common kitchen space, women at Sakihta Kikinaw get support while developing their own confidence and skills.
Boyle Street is calling this new program “flexible housing.” Unlike traditional housing models, which house people for several months, flexible housing gives residents a safe space to stay for as long as they need — from several months to several years — before transitioning into long-term housing.
Housing workers at Boyle Street say they’ve had greater success with flexible housing because it gives people with complex needs ongoing support as they get connected to all the services they require to succeed in long-term housing.
So how can you support vulnerable women? It’s clear our community needs more women’s housing. Boyle Street asks you to “become a homemaker” and sponsor a woman’s first month of rent ($650) at Sakihta Kikinaw.
By sponsoring a woman’s first month of rent at Sakihta Kikinaw, you help her settle into her new home and relieve financial strain. Having a safe space to stay with 24/7 support and access to services will make a positive and lasting impact on the lives of vulnerable women in Edmonton.
Please consider “becoming a homemaker” and sponsoring the first month of rent for a vulnerable woman today. A monetary donation of any amount will help Boyle Street continue to operate and provide services at Sakihta Kikinaw.
You can donate today at www.boylestreet.org/stovel.