ABSTRACT
This chapter describes potential housing options and the experiences of homelessness for women who have left abusive intimate partners. It examines the network of first and second-stage violence for women shelters in Canada, both of which commonly do their utmost to assist women to find stable housing, as well as other housing options. These are briefly contrasted to women’s experiences in homeless shelters. The chapter describes women from diverse backgrounds, new Canadians and Aboriginal and Indigenous women face additional barriers in the support networks. As an alternative to homelessness, shelter spaces are needed and appreciated by many. Providing a woman an opportunity to have safe housing when leaving an abuser is necessary and may even help to establish a sense of community and solidarity. The chapter ends with a critical assessment of the challenges and opportunities of the program for women abused by intimate partners.
