Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Secretary Rex Gatchalian and the Association of Women Legislators Foundation Inc. (AWLFI) on Wednesday agreed to establish a Halfway Home for Women or Women Crisis Center that will provide a safe, secure, and holistic shelter for women and their dependents experiencing abuse and mental health challenges.

The crisis center is being pushed by Pangasinan 4th District Rep. Gina de Venecia, Bulacan 4th District Rep. Linabelle Villarica, and Bukidnon 3rd District Rep. Audrey Zubiri as part of AWLFI’s continuing advocacy to complement and reinforce government-led social welfare and protection programs, particularly those under the DSWD.

Envisioned as a one-stop-shop, the proposed facility will consolidate key social protection and mental health services in a single building, rather than operating through separate facilities.

The center seeks to address existing service gaps between the Department of Health (DOH) and the DSWD through a coordinated and holistic model of care.

Designed as a transitional shelter, the halfway home will provide secure accommodation for women survivors of abuse and their dependents for a period of six to 18 months.

This extended support recognizes the need for time, stability, and comprehensive assistance as survivors recover and reintegrate after leaving abusive environments.

The implementation will be under the guidance of the DSWD, DOH, Senate, and congressional spouses.

In support of this initiative, a memorandum of agreement (MOA) will be developed soon to clearly define roles, responsibilities, collaboration mechanisms for the realization of the project, and the project site. (PNA)