2024-25_ImpactReport_ENG_AccessibleWeb - Flipbook - Page 11
Beyond Peer Support
SWAN Vancouver Society,
Vancouver, BC
“One participant shared
that improving her English
skills through the SWAN
program was a crucial step
in her journey of leaving an
abusive partner. With the
ability to communicate more
effectively, she is better
equipped to advocate for
both herself and her child.
Through SWAN’s program
and support services, she
has gained the confidence,
tools, and support needed
to navigate her challenges
and build a safer future.”
Welcome Home: Equitable Housing
Opportunities for Refugee
Claimant and Non-Status Migrant
Survivors of Gender-Based
Violence
Halifax Refugee Clinic
Halifax, Nova Scotia
Halifax Refugee Clinic supports women and
children escaping violence while they work to
secure refugee status and stay in Canada. Many
are single mothers who don’t qualify for financial
assistance like the Canada Child Benefit. The
Welcome Home project helps them access rental
subsidies, safe housing and support services so
they can heal and rebuild their lives.
ABOVE: In safe housing provided by Halifax Refugee
Clinic, women and children who’ve experienced abuse
can begin to rebuild their lives.
Barriers like stigma, racism, and concerns about
immigration status or criminalization make it
difficult for sex workers to access mainstream
support services. Beyond Peer Support is designed
to create safer spaces, connections, and resources
for immigrant and migrant sex workers who
may have experienced or be facing abuse. By
supporting community-led activities and building
leadership within the community, the program
empowers sex workers to take control of their
safety and well-being.
“With the support of the Welcome Home program,
one of our participants transitioned from an
emergency shelter into a shared home managed
by Halifax Refugee Clinic. This move marked
a turning point. For the first time since arriving
in Canada, she had access to a safe, stable
environment where her dignity was respected and
her healing journey could begin.
In this supportive space, she enrolled in English
classes, began volunteering, and is actively seeking
employment. These steps have helped her rebuild
not only her daily life but also her confidence and
sense of belonging. Her story is one of resilience,
and a testament to how safe, community-oriented
housing can open the door to healing, opportunity,
and renewed hope.”
- Maribel Palacios Duarte, Gender-Based
Violence Support Worker
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