The Société de transport de Laval (STL) and the Association Lavalloise du Transport Adapté (ALTA) have announced a new initiative to make it possible for disabled women who are victims of domestic violence to use accessible transit services for free with no registration required.
The initiative marks the beginning of Quebec Week for Disabled Persons and is a first in Quebec.
The project began in spring 2019 with the creation of a task force made up of women working for the following organizations: Table de concertation de Laval en condition féminine (TCLCF), Société de Transport de Laval (STL), Regroupement des Organismes pour la Promotion des Personnes Handicapées de Laval (ROPPHL), Lina's Home, Maison le Prélude, Maison l'Esther and the Association Lavalloise pour le Transport Adapté (ALTA).
Evidence shows that 39 percent of women with functional limitations are likely to experience spousal violence, but they are underrepresented in shelters.
"Domestic violence against disabled women is a serious issue and given that transportation to shelters has been identified as a barrier, I am very proud that the STL is part of the solution. The initiative provides women and children fleeing domestic violence with an option that is free of charge, quick and easy to use," said Éric Morasse, chair of the STL Board of Directors.
Isabelle Charest, Quebec’s Minister for Education and Minister responsible for the Status of Women, added, "We are proud to work with the city of Laval and support the project as part of the sectoral development agreement to promote gender equality in the region. The Secrétariat à la condition féminine has provided close to $100,000 in funding over two years to ensure the successful implementation of the project. This is a meaningful initiative developed jointly with a number of regional partners. The new project will enable women with disabilities to get out faster of abusive relationships and find their way to a shelter. Removing barriers for women who need to go seek help is a step in the right direction."
STL says the service is easy to use. Women can call any of the three shelters in Laval and the shelter then contacts the STL to book a ride without disclosing the victim's name. Rides can be booked for the same day with a minimum of two hours' notice. STL notes the drivers, who have experience working with people with functional limitations, are sensitive to the issue of domestic violence and will respect the women's privacy.
An awareness campaign led by ALTA
In addition to the initiative, ALTA is distributing awareness materials to better support at-risk disabled women who are fleeing abusive relationships.
"It is critical that we address the issue of domestic violence against disabled women. We want to circulate the awareness campaign logo and posters to give a voice to women with disabilities. More information and details will soon be available on the project website. We are proud to continue working on this initiative and other projects over the coming months," said Mara Audet-Leblanc, CEO of ALTA.
