Demand for services at a small Nova Scotia transition house surged during the recent Christmas season, with the organization expanding its offerings for survivors of intimate partner violence. Autumn House in Amherst experienced a 50% increase in requests for accommodations in December 2025 compared to the previous year. This heightened demand during the holiday period, traditionally a busy time for the shelter, was indicative of the ongoing challenges faced by individuals impacted by intimate partner violence.
Executive Director Dawn Ferris highlighted the province’s recognition of an intimate partner violence epidemic in Nova Scotia, attributing part of the issue to the escalating cost of living. The shelter, which can accommodate up to 10 women and children each night, has additional options available when capacity is reached. In a strategic move to address the growing need for longer-term housing solutions, Autumn House recently acquired a five-unit apartment building to provide affordable housing for women and children, with plans to develop two more apartments in the near future.
Ferris emphasized the collaborative efforts of federal and provincial governments in financing the new building, ensuring affordable long-term housing options for residents. The shelter aims to offer stability and support without a fixed duration, allowing individuals to stay for as long as needed. Recognizing the challenges faced by women in rural areas without transportation options, Ferris suggested that expanding public transportation in Cumberland County and implementing a guaranteed basic income program could help alleviate some of these issues.
