Monday afternoon the Manitoba government announced a partnership with Wahbung Abinoonjiiag Inc. (meaning "Children of Tomorrow") and Manitoba Housing to help provide living options for women and children looking for a safe place away from family violence.

The announcement was made by Families Minister Heather Stefanson, Cathy Cox, Minister responsible for the status of women, and Indigenous and Northern Relations Minister Eileen Clarke.

"Organizations like Wahbung Abinoonjiiag and their partners understand how important a stable, safe home can be for women and children as they start a new life," says Cox. "These families can feel supported, knowing their housing provider also has expertise and understanding related to their situation. We believe this partnership will help more women and children to heal and thrive."

Although this housing partnership will be in Winnipeg, it brings hope of future partnerships to those running similar services in rural areas.

Executive Director of Genesis House, Ang Braun says, "we are hopeful. I think there have been some interesting projects already taking place in our area with Winkler Affordable Housing . . . so I think that’s fantastic. Ultimately though, the rates that people on assistance are receiving and the housing that’s available just doesn't match."

She notes the cost of living is more difficult for those seeking a safe home in the Pembina Valley, or other rural areas, as people need their own vehicles as a means of transportation. This is only one of many barriers.

Just last week Morden-Winkler MLA Cameron Friesen, along with Minister Cox, visited Genesis House to hear about the work they do to effectively respond and provide a safe, compassionate, and caring place to the women and children of Southern Manitoba.

Braun says the experience involved great conversations around their work and the barriers they continue to face in the rural area.