With the help of Champlain Housing Trust, Steps to End Domestic Violence has purchased a new Shelter that will house up to 21 households - a big jump from our current shelter, which is only able to accommodate 7 households! What’s more, all units will include a kitchenette and a private bathroom. This allows us the ability to maintain social distancing while the pandemic persists — and it minimizes stressors of community living so those staying in Shelter have more privacy and one less thing to worry about as they heal.
This space will be shared, housing both our Shelter and our administrative offices. We will be able to host onsite trainings, support groups, and community meetings in our new conference and training rooms. Our plans also include a new Children’s Program space and playground. We’re so excited to foster a deeper sense of community when we’re all under one roof!
A shared space means our Shelter will no longer be confidential, but the people residing at the Shelter will remain confidential. We know that’s a big change—and there may be some (understandable!) anxiety around this, so let us explain…
Domestic violence is often “in the shadows”, which is to say we don’t talk about it, we turn away from it, and therefore, we don’t recognize its prevalence. This change will allow us to make it clear that this is happening in our community, that we are not going to tolerate violence, and that we are here to support those who have experienced violence.
We also hope this change will interrupt feelings of isolation for survivors and create some sense of normalcy after their lives have been uprooted by violence. A non-confidential location means residents can have their friends and family visit - and even order a pizza on a Friday night, something many of us take for granted. Ultimately, this move will help survivors to take back their power and control as it relates to their social networks and living space.
As for safety measures, extensive security systems and measures have been added to the scope of work, including the creation of a unit for a Resident Manager who will reside on-site and be available for after hours support. As advocates, we are constantly safety planning and asking the “what ifs”. We are always in conversation with survivors about achieving safety, but we also believe safety is defined by the individual. That’s why when there are safety concerns for households that make the new shelter an inappropriate fit, we will work to offer a safer alternative.
Steps to End Domestic Violence is currently reviewing the policies regarding shelter population and will share updates with our community as these changes are finalized. We know this is a big deal—and you might have feedback and/or questions for us. We invite you to share by completing this anonymous survey.
Thank you for being in community with us—you are helping us make a difference. We are thrilled about the new opportunities this facility will provide for survivors, for our organization and for the community. We also know it will be hard work and we are up for the challenge! We couldn’t do it without people like you. Your support is helping us create violence free communities.
For more info, see the full press release HERE.