Hi, a co worker of mine is in a tough spot. Her husband is abusive and she feels unsafe in the home. As of now she is currently not receiving enough hours at work to take care of their two children. Is she eligible for any type of financial assistance? She has PR, and the police are involved. I am looking for any information I can give to her.
Hi there,
Thank you for sharing your question and situation with us.
We can appreciate that you would be concerned about this situation. You can find some important information and supports in our Settlement.Org articles here, Where can I get help for domestic abuse?, and Do you know a woman who is being abused? A legal rights handbook.
You can get help in an emergency, in a crisis, or anytime that you experience abuse. You can get help in many ways:
- Call the police for emergency protection.- Go to a hospital or tell your doctor.- Call a telephone crisis line for assaulted women.- Contact a settlement agency.- Contact a community information centre.- Speak to a social worker or counsellor.- Go to a shelter.
You may want to share the contact information of the Assaulted Women’s Helpline with your friend as well:
There are different eligibility requirements for different financial assistance programs, you may find helpful information in the articles Can I get financial assistance in an emergency? and What financial assistance is available for childcare? It may also be helpful for your friend to connect with a community settlement agency for help in this situation. If you dial 211 on a phone, you could speak to an Information and Referral Specialist who will refer you to some supports and resources in your area.
211 is free and it is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Sincerely,
Your Settlement.Org team