Do I get my own room? You and your children will
be able to share a room. If there is no one else in the Transition
House, you may be able to have a room to your self. The rooms
are quite large, and have closets, dressers, and all the bedding
you need.
How much will it cost?There is no cost for your
stay. Food, shelter, and laundry facilities are free. You will
need your own spending money for cigarettes, diapers, personal
hygiene items, etc.
Can I leave the Transition House when I want to?YES. This is your home while you are staying there. For
safety reasons, the staff will ask when you are expected back,
and if there is a contact person where you can be reached.
If I return to my relationship, can I ever come back
to the Transition House?Yes, most definitely.
Sometimes it takes many times of leaving before a relationship
ends, or heals. You can come back, or leave, as often as you
need to.
Do I have to tell the police about the abuse, if I come
to the Transition House? No. We will encourage you to
speak with an officer, and if you need assistance in making
the call, or someone by your side while you speak with an officer,
our staff are able and willing to do that. But they will not
insist that you call the RCMP. Only YOU know what is best for
you, and if you are uncertain, your stay at the Transition House
may help you to sort out what your next steps are. There is
no rush.
If I call the Transition House do I have to leave my
name? No, nor do you have to come to the transition
house if you don't want to. Telephone support is there for you
when you need it, without any obligations on your part.
Can I bring my pet? We sure wish you could, but
you can't. There are too many other considerations; allergies,
other resident's children, etc. We suggest that you have a trusted
friend care for your pet in their own home, or have your pet
boarded at one of the local kennels. They will need proof that
your pet is vaccinated.
Who
will know if I'm at the Transition House?You, and anyone
else you tell, and the staff person on duty. The only reason
a staff person may tell someone else, is if you give them permission
to do so, or if the staff person thinks you will cause harm
to yourself or others.
What kind of food is there? We keep the fridge
and cupboards stocked with typical favourites; cereals, breads,
pastas, etc. When you come to live there, you will be able to
help with decisions about meals, your preferences, allergies,
etc.
What do I need to bring with me? If you have
time to organize some things, we suggest whatever you can bring
from this list: - Your driver's license, or ID - Birth certificate(s)
- Money, cheque book, credit cards - Lease, rental agreement,
or deed to your home - Bank book, bank statement - House keys,
car keys - Social insurance card (or memorize your number) -
Address book, and favourite phone numbers - Care card, medications,
medical records - Marriage license, divorce papers - Passport
- Immigration papers
How long can I stay?Most people stay about 30
days. They find that this is enough time to make plans, sort
thing out, and begin next steps. You may need less, you may
need a bit more. You will be supported in whatever decision
you feel is best for you.
How safe IS it? We have a video-door bell, so
that all visitors to the Transition House can be seen by those
inside, before letting them in. The House is also always locked,
with an alarm activated in case anyone tries to break the lock.
The Transition House is also right across the street from the
RCMP detachment, and someone can be at the premises within moments,
if there is an incident.
Will there be someone there to talk to? Yes.
24 hours a day. There is a day shift, afternoon shift, and night
shift. All workers have been specially trained in this support
work, and you are their first priority. NOT to give advice,
or to judge your actions, but to Listen. Just listen and be
there.
What is there for children in the Transition House?We have a resident child care worker, a well stocked play
room, and a play area in the back yard. We will not 'take over'
your role as a parent; instead we take your lead in helping
us help your child through this confusing time.
Funded by the Ministry of Community, Aboriginal
and Women's Services Province of British Columbia and local fundraising, donations,
and periodic grant partnerships.