Victim of Violence
The “victim of violence” special benefit is granted to a person who takes refuge in a first stage shelter intended for victims of violence. The special benefit is paid starting the month the person is admitted to the shelter and is provided for each month during which the person takes refuge in a shelter for victims of violence.
It continues when the beneficiary moves to a second stage housing.
Types of Facilities for Victims of Violence
There are two types of accommodation facilities for victims of violence.
Emergency Shelters
Emergency shelters – also known as “first stage shelters” – provide victims of violence with various services free of charge, including temporary and safe accommodation available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, as well as psychosocial support services tailored to their circumstances.
Emergency shelters for victims of violence are organizations whose purpose is to provide temporary housing, under one roof, for adults and their children who are forced to leave their homes because of physical or emotional abuse.
Transitional Housing
Transitional housing – also called “second stage shelters” – consists of rental units that are affiliated with first stage shelters.
Establishing the Need
A person’s admission to a shelter for victims of violence because they are experiencing violence is sufficient to establish the need for the special benefit.
Prior Authorization
No prior authorization is required to receive the monthly supplement for victims of violence.
Required Documents
Depending on the circumstances, the following documents may be required to receive the special benefit:
- A confirmation from the shelter stating that the beneficiary is a victim of violence
- A proof of residence from the transitional housing facility, if applicable
- A written or verbal statement from the beneficiary indicating the change of address
Amount Payable
The monthly supplement for victims of violence is set at $271 (2026) per month. It is indexed on January 1st of each year.
Only one monthly supplement is payable per case.
***Note: If, at the time of separation, the client was a member of a family that was already receiving assistance under the program, and where circumstances indicate an indefinite absence or separation, it is possible that two payments will be made to the same person in the same month, if complete destitution is determined.