Women who have survived violence with a plan for a future without fear now have access to the SAFE (Self-sufficiency and Assets through Financial Education) program, an educational program provided by the Victoria Women’s Transition House that aims to help them understand and control their finances.
Women who have fled abusive relationships typically require supportive services in order to successfully move to more stable housing and more hopeful futures. The eventual aim is to reintegrate them into the community through a combination of housing stability, a sense of security and new-found confidence.
But many with a past life of poverty and abuse lack the necessary financial skills to budget or set monetary goals.
“We teach our clients financial literacy,” said Parm Kroad, deputy director of the Victoria Women’s Transition House.
“Many of them have come from relationships where they never had any money and no financial control. The program educates them on how to set goals and make healthy choices with their money.”
She said many people initially find it difficult to talk about money, sometimes because they experienced some sort of financial abuse. Clients attend a series of 10 workshops to give them the basics, followed by monthly check-ups with a financial counsellor.
The 18-month program also includes a personal savings project, which support individual goals.
“We have had great success with the program so far, with every client wanting to participate,” said Kroad. “Along with employment training, life skills training and safe housing, the program goes a long way to support the women’s re-integration into society.”
The Women’s Transition House was founded in 1974 and provides services through five facilities, over 50 staff and close to 70 volunteers working on a variety of programs. Contributors for its operation include the province, public and community donations, grants and funding by the Victoria Foundation.
For more information, go to transitionhouse.net.
