A new facility for women and children fleeing domestic violence has opened in Maple Ridge.
The Bernice Gehring Building, named in honour of the tireless advocate for social justice in the community, is the first of its kind in the city.
As part of Cythera Transition House Society, the facility will offer trauma-informed care and secure housing for families fleeing abusive environments.
The facility will offer 14 second-stage and 20 long-term housing units, which will provide a safe and supportive environment where women and children can rebuild their lives, free from violence.
Kristy Rogge, executive director of the Cythera Transition House Society and Maple Ridge/Pitt Meadows Community Services, noted that the building is owned by BC Housing, with the Cythera being the operator.
“This home represents more than a roof over someone’s head – it’s a place where healing begins,” said Rogge, adding it will be an environment where families can feel safe, regain their independence, and start fresh with dignity and hope.
Coquitlam-Maillardville MLA Jennifer Blatherwick, parliamentary secretary for Gender Equity, was on hand for the grand opening along with Maple Ridge East MLA Lawrence Mok, Chelsa Meadus representing the office of MP Marc Dalton, and acting mayors and council members for both Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows.
Blatherwick noted that violence against women and children is not just physical, but that there are emotional scars which can last a lifetime.
“That kind of experience not only effects individuals but it effects families, it effects communities and it travels down through generations,” she said, further noting that ending the violence is not just a personal journey, but a community responsibility.
The opening of the Bernice Gehring building is a step forward, said the MLA.
“These are more than just places to stay, these are sanctuaries, these are places of healing, these are places of safety,” she said, homes, she added where people can rebuild their lives.
Acting Maple Ridge mayor, Coun. Jenny Tan, spoke on behalf of council, saying she hopes the women and children who come through the Bernice Gehring Building will become future city councillors and become the kind of people that Bernice was.
“When the women come through this building, they have come through fire,” said Tan. “I have just nothing but respect for them, and admiration for the ability to rebuild your life after something like that.”
Tish Scoffins, chair of the board of directors of Cythera Transition House Society, said the building will represent safety, hope and new beginnings, noting the project had been in the making since September of 2018. And when she sat on the board along with Bernice in 2010, they both knew the need was there.
Bernice Gehring was one of the last surviving grandchildren of John A. McIver, the first land owner and founding father of Maple Ridge, and her involvement with Cythera Transition House started in the early 1980’s when she served on city council.
She would eventually become chair of Cythera’s board of directors, a position she held until 2016.
Cythera Transition House Society is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing comprehensive support for individuals and families impacted by interpersonal violence, poverty, and systemic barriers.
Bernice’s son, Ron Gehring, one of three siblings, was overcome at the grand opening ceremony, held not at the facility, which is at an undisclosed location, but at Community Services, on 119th Avenue and 227th Street in Maple Ridge.
“What a legacy,” he said of the memorial to his mother, whom he said would be so honoured if she knew her name was on this building.
He is hoping his own grandchildren will be inspired to contribute to the community just like their great-grandmother did.
He said his mother will always be a part of the building from the foundation up, loving and protecting all who pass through.