The transition society offers multiple programs to those in need, such as Housing Outreach, Sexual Abuse Intervention, Stopping the Violence Counselling, Supportive Recovery, Women’s Outreach, Homeless Prevention and Family Counselling.
Many rooms are number key-coded and change once residents are transitioned out of their stay.
The average length of stay at the facility is 30 days, though some women may stay longer or shorter due to their circumstances fleeing abuse or violence. The society also contributes resources for women and children who may need funds transporting to a different town or city as well. No male is allowed in the facility without written permission from the person he’s visiting and a background check.
The building is often known as looking quite larger on the inside as well.
“It’s a little bit like [Dr. Who’s] TARDIS in that respect when you come from outside. It is a lot bigger inside as you get into it and we’re really pleased with that. One of the big differences here is that we can offer families the privacy of their own room ... For people who are already stressed out and going through major changes, that privacy is a big deal,” said White.
The Port of Prince Rupert contributed $31,000 from its Community Investment Fund, which donates a portion of the Port’s income to community projects that benefit the region.
“The transition society plays such a vital role in ensuring that the most vulnerable in our society have a safe haven – a place where they have not just a roof over their heads, but emotional support. Where the transition society is going in terms of its education, outreach and awareness to actually try and change attitudes and conditions that contribute to that is to be applauded,” said Ken Veldman, public affairs director at the Port of Prince Rupert, before cutting the official ribbon to open Robin’s Place.