Somenos House
Somenos means “resting place” in the Hulquminum language. We welcome women with and without children (including trans individuals who self-identify as women) from all walks of life, who are at risk of violence or abuse from their male or female partner, or from a family member or other individual.
Somenos Transition House is a comfortable and supportive place where women and their children can stay for a while when needing safety from abuse. Counsellors provide support, safety planning and information about resources at CWAV Society and community. We can help you explore your options and support you to make the decisions that are right for you. We do not pressure women to leave a relationship, or judge or pressure women to return to a relationship.
Somenos House is a program of CWAV Society. We are independent from the police and the Ministry of Child and Family Development (MCFD), although both the RCMP and MCFD do refer women to Somenos House.
Confidentiality is essential for the safety of the house and its residents. Those who stay with us are expected to maintain confidentiality of the location and anyone else who stays on site.
The house is a comfortable family-style home, and is staffed 24/7 to provide a safe haven from violence in a confidential and secure location in the Cowichan Valley.
All services at Somenos House are provided free of charge, including accommodation, food, emotional support, safety planning, information, and referrals. Co-operative living, substance use and security guidelines are in place, to support the well-being of all residents and staff. These will be discussed prior to service being provided in order to ensure that this is the right resource for you.
Interested in finding out more? Contact Somenos House at 250-748-8544 (Text 250-701-1563 or email: somenoshouse@cwav.org) any time of day or night. When you call we will talk with you about your situation and about the services at the house, to determine if Somenos House is the right resource for you. Sometimes we will talk with you first on the phone, and arrange a time to meet with you somewhere safe in the community. If we cannot accommodate you, we will work with you to identify another option. If you are unsure about what you want to do, and just want to talk about what is happening for you in your relationship, we welcome your call.
Somenos House is funded by BC Housing Corporation and by community support.
How do I get to the Somenos House?
Call the House from a safe place and talk with staff. We always want to talk directly with you so we know what your needs are and we can tell you more about the House. If someone wants to help (friend, co-worker, social worker, police…) they can suggest you call us, but that is always up to you.
What to bring (if you can)? Somenos will have food for you and your children, bedding and some clothes in case of emergency. Bring your children, important papers and identification, medications, your keys, and comfort items for you or your children.
FOR SOMENOS HOUSE CALL ANYTIME 250-748-8544
For Support by Text: 250-701-1563 or email: somenoshouse@cwav.org
Comments by Women Who Have Stayed at Somenos House
“Felt welcome here and could talk to anybody.”
“I appreciate all the help I received. Talking with staff eased my soul and has strengthened me. I feel stronger now and feel relieved to know there is somewhere safe for me to go with understanding ears.”
“Such a cozy atmosphere, Somenos is like a home away from home. Wonderful caring, supportive staff. Very helpful advice from all the workers.”
“This stay has made is possible for me to get on with the business of living happily.”
Homelessness Prevention Program
The Homelessness Prevention Program supports women in transition to independence from Somenos Transition House with practical support and rental subsidies (when available).
This program is funded by BC Housing Corporation
