This International Women’s Day (March 8), we are embracing equity to create a more inclusive world. At Covenant House Vancouver, we are committed to empowering young women, girls, and gender-diverse youth, who face unique challenges that often contribute to homelessness. Women are more susceptible to exploitation, domestic violence, and can lack community support.
36% of people experiencing homelessness in Canada are women-identified.
Unique Challenges, Unique Needs
Many traditional shelter systems are not designed with the safety and developmental needs of young women and gender-diverse youth in mind. This lack of services leaves them feeling unsafe and unsupported, which can push many into precarious living situations.
90% of families using emergency shelters are headed by single women
At Covenant House Vancouver, we offer self-identified, gender-specific spaces that allow youth to feel safe and respected. We listen, we understand, and we affirm their feelings — which empowers them to make choices that restore their dignity. Women are often a part of the “hidden homeless,” which means that they will couch surf with friends or may feel pushed to partner with someone who may not have their best interests at heart, to avoid sleeping on the streets.
Approximately 699 women and 236 accompanying children are turned away from domestic violence shelters across Canada each day.
Creating Safe Space and Choices
Our approach is rooted in understanding each youth as a whole person. Our gender-specific staff on all shifts, free access to essential needs, like pads and tampons, and comprehensive safety planning are just some ways that we meet the distinct needs of young women and gender-diverse youth.
By fostering a culture of choice and empowerment, we help young people build confidence, dream big, and navigate their futures with hope and resilience. One CHV alum shared, “Covenant House gave me an environment where I didn’t have to sacrifice a part of myself to pursue my dreams. I could explore who I was and discover what I liked, without fear.”
Double Your Impact this International Women’s Day
This International Women’s Day, an anonymous donor has stepped up to ensure the safety and empowerment of all youth. From now until March 14th, your donation will be matched dollar for dollar, to double your impact.
Your support helps provide safe, inclusive spaces and vital resources to young women, girls, and gender-diverse youth who face the greatest vulnerabilities. Together, we can embrace equity and create a world where every young person can dream big and thrive.
Join us in embracing equity. Make a difference today.
Statistics are from: https://womenshomelessness.ca/women-girls-homelessness-in-canada/