Joint media release from the BC Society of Transition Houses, Alberta Council of Women’s Shelters, Provincial Association of Transition Houses and Services of Saskatchewan and Manitoba Association of Women’s Shelters
The cancellation of Greyhound bus services in BC, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba and North-western Ontario will put women and their children who are fleeing violence at greater risk.
It is vital that women in rural and remote communities have access to safe and affordable transportation. Without it, they may have little choice but to remain with their abuser.
The absence of affordable transportation also increases the risk of less safe ways travelling, such as hitch-hiking. This can result in horrific outcomes, as we know from the fate of so many missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls in particular.
Women in rural and remote communities are also disadvantaged in obtaining specialized supports for themselves and their children; whether it be income support, legal aid and court appointments, counselling services or medical attention. Affordable transportation is essential in ensuring they have access to these services, when they are not available in their home community.
As provincial associations for domestic violence services, we regard affordable travel options as essential services that should be supported with public revenue in order to protect the safety of those living in rural and remote areas.
Media enquiries please contact:
For BC:
Joanne Baker, Executive Director, BC Society of Transition Houses: joanne@bcsth.ca or 604 653 9075
For Alberta:
Jan Reimer, Executive Director, Alberta Council of Women’s Shelters, janreimer@acws.ca or 780-456-7000
For Saskatchewan:
Jo-Anne Dusel, Executive Director, Provincial Association of Transition Houses and Services of Saskatchewan (PATHS), paths@sasktel.net or 306-630-5254
For Manitoba:
Deena Brock, Provincial Coordinator, Manitoba Association of Women’s Shelters: maws@maws.mb.ca, 204-430-4346