January 2025 Newsletter
As we welcome 2025, we are filled with hope for the year ahead.
Our commitment remains strong to support women and their children fleeing domestic abuse in the Fraser Valley, helping them rebuild their lives and embrace new beginnings.
With the unwavering support of our community, we will continue to provide safety, healing, and empowerment. Together, we can make 2025 a year of growth, resilience, and brighter futures for women and their children!
Read below about Balwinder and her children’s journey towards a bright future. Learn how Victim Services and SARA work together, and find out how men can be part of the solution on our path towards safety and security for women and their children in the Fraser Valley.
Balwinder’s Story
Balwinder (not her real name) immigrated to Canada in 1997. Living on a farm and isolated from immediate family, she faced challenges common in migrant and multicultural communities, including hidden intimate partner violence often viewed as a norm in marriage. This cultural context contributed to her decision to remain in an abusive relationship.
As the abuse escalated, Balwinder called 911. When the police arrived, her husband claimed she was the abuser. He had scratches because she was trying to escape. Due to a language barrier, Balwinder struggled to communicate her side of the story. The officer categorized the incident as a domestic disturbance, but before leaving, the officer handed Balwinder a pamphlet listing support resources.
Months later, she found the courage to reach out to the police when her partner was away. At that time, she had four children, the youngest still an infant. With the help of Victim Services, she connected with SARA For Women. The Mission Transition House (MTH) arranged a taxi for her escape. When her partner returned and began to follow, the taxi driver quickly changed course and took her to the police station. After her partner left, the driver took her to MTH. She and her children arrived with their belongings in garbage bags, but Balwinder felt a sense of relief. “I have never slept in peace for many years and was relieved to be in a safe place.”
At MTH, staff assisted Balwinder in filing a police report and navigating available resources. They helped her address financial issues, as her partner had been taking her child tax benefits, and facilitated a call to her family overseas letting them know she was safe. A Multicultural Outreach Worker helped her secure housing and rental assistance through BC Housing while waiting for an opening at SARA’s Christine Lamb Residence (CLR), where she moved once a spot became available.
At CLR, she and her children received counselling, inspiration, and resources. Before her stay ended, SARA staff helped her secure permanent housing.
With the support of the Multicultural Outreach Worker, Balwinder retained a legal aid family lawyer and a civil lawyer for property matters. She appreciated that her lawyer spoke her language and provided guidance throughout her family law case. The outreach worker advocated for her in court, while MTH staff supported Balwinder with her children.
A holistic approach was taken to support Balwinder and her children. Today, she inspires and empowers other women in similar situations. Her eldest daughter has completed a degree in social work and is seeking employment in the field. Her younger sister and brother have graduated from grade 12, with her brother currently attending a mechanics course. The youngest child is in middle school.
“I was vulnerable with four young children. I didn't know how to reach out; I was scared of deportation, had limited English, and didn’t know where to start. If it weren't for SARA and the diverse staff who spoke my language, I would still be living with the abuser.”
Victim Services
As 40% of the calls for service to Abbotsford Police Department are related to Intimate Partner Violence, Victim Services makes frequent referrals to SARA for Women for our clients who are looking for information, supports and services and are looking for direction, guidance, support and in many cases, safe shelter. AbbyPD VS alongside of VAWIR (Violence Against Women In Relationships) also heavily promotes SARA in Mission and Abbotsford during the annual Purple Lights Nights Campaign in October ensuring our community partners and community members are aware of the collective supports and services available.
Sue Shaw- Coordinator: Victim Services Unit, Abbotsford Police Dept.
We're launching the Flip the Script Project: a campaign encouraging men to support one another in addressing intimate partner violence. It’s time to shift the focus: we must hold accountable those who inflict harm, recognizing that the majority of perpetrators are men.
SARA has long provided support for women who are victims, but now men must take action and understand that this is not solely a women’s issue—it's a men's issue.
Join us in Flipping the Script and become part of the solution! We’re seeking male advocates from all backgrounds who are ready to publicly advocate for this critical cause. Click the link below to find out how you can be a face for change!
Join us for our Spring Celebration on May 24, 2025, as we commemorate 50 years of offering safe refuge and essential resources to women and children fleeing domestic violence in the Fraser Valley. This event is more than just a gathering; it’s a chance to raise awareness and vital funds for our life-changing programs and outreach efforts. Our mission is to support women and their children, ensuring they have access to the supplies and care they need during difficult times. Together, we can bring hope for a brighter future to vulnerable women and their children in the Fraser Valley.
Community support is everything! Thank you for supporting SARA for Women