As Info-Femmes prepares to move, the need for safe housing for women remains constant. Quebec’s traditional moving day may come just once a year on July 1st, but the need for safe and secure housing for women escaping violence is year-round.
Info-Femmes, a women’s resource centre in Montreal, is preparing to relocate to a new space in the borough of Mercier–Hochelaga-Maisonneuve.
“That’s our goal,” said Anna Loyer, co-coordinator at Info-Femmes. “To be closer, more accessible, and able to reach more people.”
With the help of Shelter Movers—known in Quebec as Transit Secours—Info-Femmes is working to support the growing number of women seeking to escape intimate partner violence amid a worsening housing crisis.
“You know that the housing crisis is tied to financial issues,” said Anathalie Jean-Charles, chapter director of Shelter Movers. “Most places to live are very expensive nowadays. And this affects our most vulnerable populations even more—many don’t even have the finances just to move. Renting is also a major obstacle.”
At Info-Femmes, the focus is on being the first point of contact.
“We’re a first line of listening,” said Loyer. “Women come for individual support, and they also come for collective activities that help break isolation, build connections, and find solutions. We don’t offer specialized interventions—but we offer generalized, accessible support.”
The work is supported by volunteers like Kervin Lubin, who believes allyship is crucial.
“To help women is equally to help men,” Lubin said. “There shouldn’t be a difference in support because of gender—but sadly, there is. So I’m here to support the cause, to show that as men, we can bring impact too. We’re all in this together.”
A new report from Statistics Canada shows that asking rents in Montreal have increased by nearly 71 per cent since 2019—making the search for safe, affordable housing even more difficult for women and children fleeing abuse.
According to Femicide in Canada, one woman or girl is killed every two days—most often by a current or former male partner.
“Gender-based violence isn’t just a women’s issue,” said Jean-Charles. “It’s a collective, societal issue. If you think about it—your mother, your sister, your daughter, your neighbor—any one of them could be affected. Everyone you know may have a story you don’t know about.”
Jean-Charles urged people to act: “If you feel moved by this, do something. Talk to your sons. Talk to people you think may need support. Even if you’re unsure—bring it up. Get involved. Be part of the movement to end gender-based violence.”
If you need help, reach out. Call SOS violence conjugale 24/7 at 1-800-363-9010.
If you fear you may become violent towards your partner, call PRO-GAM for an appointment at 514-270-8462.