Howe Sound Women’s Centre said it has made the difficult decision to close Pearl’s Value & Vintage store, reduce drop-in centre services, and shift to phone or video support only for at least the next two weeks.
HSWC will be closely monitoring and evaluating with an eye to re-opening as soon as it is deemed safe to do so and will provide frequent updates.
“We recognize that during times of high stress and uncertainty, instances of domestic violence frequently increase. Our intention is that any person calling one of the numbers above will access the support services they need,” said Ashley Oakes, Executive Director of Howe Sound Women’s Centre.
Howe Sound Women’s Centre front line staff will be working regular hours and will be available to take calls for support as well as book appointments for video support.
In Squamish, the drop-in centre number is 604-892-5748. For Whistler and North, the number is 604-962-8711.
Front line staff will be available Monday to Thursday, from 10 am to 4 pm. In addition, the 24-hour crisis line will be available 1-877-890-5711.
“We will also be connecting with our social service partners in the corridor to ensure a coordinated response is enacted to support our communities most vulnerable people,” Oakes said.
“This is a time for our community to come together and support each other. Survivors of domestic or sexual violence understand all too well what it is like to live in fear and there is a lot of fear being broadcast in these days. Please, take care of each other. Be gentle. Share. Help your neighbours. HSWC’s 24-hour crisis line is always available.”