November is Family Violence Prevention Month: Recognizing the Impact on Families Experiencing Homelessness
November marks Family Violence Prevention Month, a time dedicated to shedding light on the pervasive issue of family violence and supporting those affected. While Inn from the Cold is not a family violence shelter, we are deeply aware that many of the families we serve come to us bearing the scars of such trauma. The intersection between family violence and homelessness is one that we witness frequently as families escape dangerous situations, often with little more than the clothes on their backs, seeking safety and stability.
Understanding the Link Between Family Violence and Homelessness
Family violence is one of the leading causes of homelessness for women and children. Many survivors face a heartbreaking choice: endure ongoing harm or risk homelessness. The journey to stability can be long and challenging for those who decide to leave. At Inn from the Cold, we see families working to rebuild their lives after leaving behind everything familiar—homes, jobs, schools, and communities—in search of safety.
The impact of family violence is profound, often affecting survivors’ physical and emotional well-being and contributing to stress, anxiety, and other mental health challenges. These issues, combined with the sudden loss of financial security and housing, place immense strain on families. Our work focuses not only on providing immediate shelter but also on supporting families on a pathway to long-term stability, honouring their resilience as they move forward from trauma.
Emma House: A Safe Haven for Expectant Mothers
One of Inn from the Cold’s vital programs, Emma House, provides safe, supportive transitional housing for expectant mothers experiencing or at risk of homelessness. Many of the women who come to Emma House are seeking refuge from family violence, in need of a safe environment not only for themselves but also for their unborn children. Emma House offers critical stability during a vulnerable time, helping young mothers access resources, build life skills, and regain independence. In this supportive environment, these women have the opportunity to begin anew, free from violence and fear.
Inn from the Cold’s Commitment to Trauma-Informed Care
Our team is dedicated to creating a compassionate and understanding environment for families who have experienced trauma, including family violence. We recognize the importance of trauma-informed care in helping families regain a sense of control and stability in their lives. Our staff is trained to approach each family with empathy, respecting their unique journey and the difficult choices they have had to make.
For families healing from the effects of family violence, we offer support that goes beyond shelter. This includes connections to community resources, counselling, case management, and a dedicated team that understands the complexities of trauma. We help families access safe housing, enroll children in schools, and, above all, find a sense of safety that allows them to begin healing.
Recognizing Women’s Shelters and Family Violence Organizations
We proudly partner with and stand alongside Women’s Shelters and Family Violence organizations in Calgary that specialize in supporting survivors of domestic abuse. These incredible organizations provide critical, specialized services, from emergency shelters to counselling, legal support, and advocacy. We deeply value our partnerships with them, as together, we create a safety net for families who have endured the devastating effects of family violence. Their dedicated work allows survivors to find a refuge and take the first steps toward healing.
The Need for Safe, Affordable Housing
Affordable housing is a crucial piece of the puzzle for families leaving abusive situations. The current shortage of affordable, family-sized housing in Calgary makes it even harder for survivors to secure stable homes after leaving a violent situation. As we work to support these families, we also advocate for solutions that address housing accessibility and affordability.
By providing families with a safe place to stay, Inn from the Cold offers a foundation from which they can begin to rebuild. However, the need for affordable, permanent housing remains urgent. Without it, families are at a heightened risk of returning to unsafe environments simply because there are no other options. This Family Violence Prevention Month, we call on the community to recognize the importance of housing as a pathway to safety and security for survivors of domestic violence.
A Future of Hope and Stability
At Inn from the Cold, we believe every family deserves to live in a safe, stable environment. Family violence is a barrier to this basic human right, and we remain committed to supporting families on their journey to healing. This November, let’s all take a stand against family violence and work together to create a safer, more compassionate community for everyone.
Through awareness, advocacy, and action, we can bring hope and healing to those who need it most.
