The Elizabeth Fry Society of Saskatchewan  has launched a new program called “Homes Not Handcuffs” to help women stay housed and out of jail. The program offers small, one-time grants to help with rent, damage deposits, or moving costs, giving women a better chance to find stability.

The program also helps connect women in need with housing and addiction treatment through peer support. Executive Director Nicole Obrigavitch says the goal is to stop the cycle of homelessness and criminalization before it begins.

After giving out a grant, the Elizabeth Fry Society follows up with each recipient after 30, 60, and 90 days to offer more help, such as finding treatment or applying for programs like Saskatchewan Income Support. The society supports women and gender-diverse people who are involved in, or at risk of entering, the criminal justice system, helping with bail, release, and reintegration plans.

Cheyenne McDonald, the coordinator of the Homes Not Handcuffs program, said she feels deeply for the women who apply for help. She shared the story of a mother who lived without electricity for two months with her children before finding the program.

Source: Alex Kozroski, CBC