Halifax, Nova Scotia – March 6, 2026: At a time when communities around the world, including here in Canada, are facing growing economic pressures and increasing threats to gender equity, THANS recognizes the Government of Nova Scotia’s continued investment in transition houses and related community services supporting women and children. This includes the four-year funding commitment announced in early 2025, which has helped provide greater stability for THANS member organizations delivering frontline services across the province
As the provincial umbrella association bringing together fourteen violence-against-women organizations that support women and children experiencing violence across Nova Scotia, THANS works closely with communities to strengthen prevention and response efforts. Investments such as this help ensure that essential services remain available for the women and children across the province who rely on them for safety and support. We value the ongoing collaboration between our sector and our government partners.
At the same time, we are concerned that several reductions proposed in this year’s provincial budget may disproportionately affect vulnerable Nova Scotians, including women and children who are already at greater risk of experiencing violence.
Gender-based violence does not occur in isolation. It is shaped by broader social and economic conditions, including poverty, colonialism, and systemic discrimination. Programs that support transportation, youth engagement, disability inclusion, and culturally-specific community services play an important role in strengthening protective factors for individuals and families, while also addressing longstanding systemic inequities.
When services and community supports are reduced, the ripple effects are often felt by those who already face barriers to safety and stability. These impacts are often felt most strongly by women, children, and marginalized communities.
Preventing violence requires a whole-of-society approach, as highlighted in the Mass Casualty Commission’s Final Report. This includes strong community systems that support housing stability, economic security, and access to social services. Sustained investment across these areas helps create the conditions that allow families to live safely and with dignity.
THANS remains committed to working alongside government and community partners across the province to strengthen the systems that support survivors. We look forward to continuing our collaborative work to build safer, healthier communities for all Nova Scotians.