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​we're here

WHAT WE OFFER

Our program provides transitional supports and safe housing to women with or without children, who are leaving abusive relationships. Our affordable, well-maintained twelve apartment complex offers a stable environment in which women may access a variety of supports to help them make long term plans for independent living. Information, support and practical resources are available to women regardless of age, colour, religion, education, economic status or ability, who have identified a commitment to move beyond the abuse. The longer-term support women receive while residing at Second Stage is intended to empower and enable them to live independently in our community, free from abuse.
Women's Programs
  • Support Group (psycho-educational)
  • Individual Supports to develop transition plans, safety plans and independent life skills
  • Parenting supports
  • Referrals and advocacy
Children's Programs
  • Support groups
  • Individual support to develop skills such as personal safety,  communication, non-violent problem solving, coping skills and self confidence
  • Recreational programs
  • Referrals and advocacy
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​How can you access Second Stage Housing?
We accept referrals from individuals, agencies, and professionals.  It can be as simple as making a phone call to
​519-637-2288, Monday to Friday, 8:30 am to 4:30 pm or by completing the referral form.

Who may access Second Stage Housing?
A woman who has:
  • experienced physical, psychological, emotional, sexual, verbal abuse or neglect
  • identified a need for ongoing support for herself and her children
  • General questions and inquiries can be directed to: 519-637-2288

Our Commitment:
We will work with you to design supports specific to your unique needs, maintain confidentiality and advocate for you in the complex web of social institutions you may need to access.

Your Commitment:
Participate in the programs and to live in a violence-free environment that supports the rights and needs of all participants.

abuse...​

WHAT IS IT?

A woman can be abused in many different ways. Some of the most commonly reported ways are listed below in the power and control wheel.
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Domestic Violence Power and Control Wheel

WHY WOMEN STAY

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There are many reasons why a woman stays in an abusive relationship. Below is a list of twelve common reasons. 
  1. CONVENIENCES - sometimes a woman believes it's easier to stay than to leave.
  2. LACK OF SELF-ESTEEM - if a woman is told something enough, she will start to believe it.
  3. BELIEF THAT PARTNER WILL CHANGE - in the cycle of abuse, the honeymoon phase confuses the woman.
  4. FAMILY AND FRIENDS - woman often hear messages from friends and family encouraging them to 'stick it out'.
  5. RELIGION - some patriarchal family structures use their beliefs as justification for the abuse.
  6. PROFESSIONAL COMMUNITY - many services and professionals may be too busy to see / validate a woman's concerns.
  7. SOCIALIZATION - gender roles influenced by society teach women they should be the caretakers, and are too weak and emotional.
  8. FEAR.
  9. LEARNED BEHAVIOUR - generational factors.
  10. ISOLATION - moving or being kept in a remote location, away from supports and services.
  11. LACK OF INFORMATION - embarrassment can keep a woman from leaving an abusive situation.
  12. NO PLACE TO GO - there may be limited places a woman feels she can go for refuse, given her personal situation.

we're here for you

HOURS & LOCATION
Monday — Friday
830am — 430pm
St. Thomas - Elgin Second Stage Housing
15 Golding Place
St. Thomas, ON
N5R 6B6

(519) 637-2288