SSTH New Build Project

What is the Second Stage Transitional Housing (SSTH) New Build project?

Second Stage Transitional Housing (SSTH) is a form of transitional supportive housing for survivors of domestic violence who are at risk of danger post-separation and need additional time and support to heal from their trauma and rebuild their lives. In our 2020 report on second stage transitional housing, we learned that there is not enough of this type of housing in Canada.

Launched in September 2022, WSC increased its in-house capacity to offer development services to underserved organizations, especially shelters in rural, remote, and northern communities, that are interested in creating new second stage transitional housing. These services are at no cost to the shelters.

Shelters are often over capacity, lacking time and expertise to create more spaces. WSC fills this gap by offering services to support shelters through the development process.

What impact has the SSTH New Build project made so far?

Through knowledge and coaching, we have engaged 40+ shelters nationwide, providing tailored advice and resources.
The SSTH New Build project team has applied for and successfully been awarded nearly $17 million in capital funds for new second stage transitional housing projects, benefitting seven shelter organizations.
Valued at approximately $1.5 million, the SSTH New Build project team is providing in-kind project management services for four second stage transitional housing projects.
Two projects have completed construction thanks to the SSTH New Build project team’s support. These two projects created a total of 17 new second stage transitional housing units, which will provide 71 beds for women and children.

The map of Canada with location pins indicates shelters that the SSTH New Build project has supported from November 2022 to May 2025.

Testimonials from Project Participants

[The SSTH New Build team] has been so valuable to our organization… in hopes of ensuring the valuable services we provide in community are here for years to come. The information, resources, support, connections and funding provided to our organization is the only reason we have come as far as we have in our efforts to reach our goal. My job overseeing this project has become much less stressful with the knowledge this team provides. Forever grateful.

Throughout the feasibility process, the SSTH New Build team was timely and integral to the inception and continuance of our organization’s project. Their effectiveness exemplifies their personal and professional commitment to women, specifically rural women, in elevating our organization to enhance our existing shelter program.

I cannot overstate the value that Women’s Shelters Canada’s Second Stage Transitional Housing New Build project has brought to our project. While the Executive Director of a transition house does shoulder a myriad of duties and responsibilities, I was simply not equipped to also act as a Project Manager (PM) for such a significant project. The knowledge and professionalism of my WSC PMs, coupled with their support and encouragement through many difficult decisions, has made the project a true success. I have no doubt that, without WSC’s support of this project, we would still be many years away from completion. Thank you WSC for going the extra mile to uplift services to women facing gender-based violence!

Well, without [the SSTH New Build project team], [our project] wouldn’t have been feasible at all…I could say it would have remained a pipe dream for us. And I guess what I could say is that through this process as opposed to being a pipe dream, it feels like it’s a tangible, reachable goal.

[This process] has definitely been a struggle…We had pretty much thrown in the towel when we were introduced to [the SSTH New Build project]. And I can honestly say there is no way we would be where we are right now if we didn’t have this opportunity with Women’s Shelters Canada. [They] are supporting us, answering all my questions, even the really silly ones!

How can I access support from the SSTH New Build project?

If you are a VAW shelter organization interested in creating a new second stage transitional housing project, the WSC team can support you. The SSTH New Build project focuses specifically on creating new second stage transitional housing and does not cover emergency shelters, transition houses, or repairs to existing second stage transitional housing. However, if your project envisions both second stage and emergency spaces, WSC can assist.

Given the high demand for the SSTH New Build project from women’s shelters nationwide, the WSC team may not be able to accommodate every request for services due to capacity limitations. Nevertheless, the team remains available for virtual knowledge and coaching meetings with your shelter organization to discuss next steps and offer advice.

Support & Resources

Book a Meeting

To book a meeting for support with your project, reach out to Kyla Tanner, Development Project Manager, at ktanner@endvaw.ca. Our one-on-one knowledge and coaching sessions are tailored to address your specific project needs.

Applications

Applications for project management support, including feasibility studies, grant applications, and construction assistance, are currently closed.

Resources

For resources related to the development of new second stage transitional housing, explore these available materials.

If your project is in Quebec, additional support is available through the Alliance of Second Stage Shelters for Women and Children Victims of Domestic Violence (Alliance MH2)

SSTH Newsletter Sign Up

Interested in building a new second stage shelter or transitional housing program? Join the SSTH New Build Project mailing list to learn about new capital funding opportunities, access resources for development projects, and stay connected to the sector.