A new 14-unit town-house complex has opened its doors for women and children fleeing violence in Kamloops.

A 7.2-million dollar BC Housing project — run by the local Elizabeth Fry Society — has begun accepting new tenants.

Danielle Cox, Kamloops District Elizabeth Fry Society’s Housing Programs Manager, says unlike their other housing projects, this housing complex is a permanent place for families fleeing violence to live.

“We offer programming like skills-support, if the folks who are there still require it,” said Cox.  “It’s a mostly independent living situation though.”

She notes this facility is somewhat different from the other housing projects they operate.

“Some of our other programming we offer more one-on-one support for women and children who have fled violence.”

So far half of the 14-units in the two-building townhouse complex have been filled, with the other building expected to start accepting tenants this month.

“No matter where people live in B.C., they should have a safe place to go when they need it,” said Housing Minister Ravi Kahlon in a government release. “These 14 homes will be instrumental in providing women and children with the safe, long-term housing options they need in times of crisis and on the path to recovery.”

Due to security concerns, the location in Kamloops of the complex is not being disclosed.