The Fondazzjoni Kenn u Tama said that it has acquired two apartments in shell form in Victoria, Gozo. The apartments will be called Dar Emmaws, are intended to be converted into shelters for victims of domestic violence and their children
This is the first shelter for victims of domestic violence for many years.
The Foundation said that victims of domestic violence would be accommodated on a temporary basis until they found a permanent place to live, or were reconciled.
The shelter will also serve as a meeting point where children of estranged parents may be picked up by either of the parents in terms of court orders.
The contract of sale was signed between Ballija Property Development Limited and Fr Mikiel Xuereb, Mrs Josephine Dingli and Mgr Dr Joe Vella Gauci for the foundation, at a cost of €191,060..
The foundation said it was calling for volunteers to help it convert the properties for its needs. Those people who are interested can please contact Fr Xuereb on 99866673 or 99294207, or kennutama@gmail.com [1].
2 Comments To "Shelter for domestic violence victims being set up in Gozo"
#1 Comment By James A. Tyrrell On January 4, 2011 @ 6:54 pm
There are many such properties in N. Ireland and the rest of the UK and I agree that it’s about time such shelters were available again in Gozo. The one thing I can’t understand is why the press have not only published the fact that the apartments are to be located in Victoria but have kindly provided a photograph and even the name the apartments will be called. The whole idea of these shelters is that a woman can feel safe from her abuser, and the press have removed that safety by publishing such details.
#2 Comment By Annet On January 7, 2011 @ 4:16 pm
@ James,
You said it James,it was my first thought,how stupid can they be!!!
In Holland we have also places like this,but mostly they give you shelter at the other site of the country, But I think Gozo is to small for this kind of anonymous protection.
Even though, I think the possibility for the women with children to escape from domestic violence makes them feel heard and not feeling helpless.
Greets from Annet (Holland)