Transitional Housing

Bridge House Transitional Housing Program offers safe, secure and affordable housing for individuals and their children who are overcoming domestic violence. Bridge House is a next step option for those leaving crisis shelter who are in need of a secure refuge in which to build a better, safer future for themselves and their children.

Bridge House facilitates a safe and supportive environment for women and their children seeking a fresh start and a path to independence in their own community. This program includes ongoing, confidential supportive counselling as well as intensive case management to assist individuals and families with housing, economic independence and appropriate community connections.

Bridge House was established through a partnership between the YWCA Banff and St. George-in-the-Pines Anglican Church. Prior to Bridge House, the Bow Valley Women’s Emergency Shelter housed the region’s only dedicated space for women and their children fleeing violence. The need for additional resources to adequately support victims in our communities was crucial.

A lack of suitable housing as well as rising rents in the Bow Valley present significant barriers for victims of violence looking to rebuild their lives after leaving crisis shelter. Without transitional housing options, victims often reluctantly return to abusive environments in lieu of accessing suitable facilities and supports in other cities or towns far from home.