New women's crossing in Eferding: A safe port for those affected

New women's crossing in Eferding: A safe port for those affected

In the district of Eferding, an important step is taken towards the support of women in stressful relationship situations: the first women's transition apartment. This initiative is located in the municipality of Haibach OB of the Danube and is intended to offer women who are in difficult situations.

The women's crossing apartment is not only characterized by its expediency, but is also viewed as an important contribution to the region's social infrastructure. The need for such accommodations is great, as Christine Haberlander (ÖVP), women's officer and governor deputy, emphasizes: "The apartment is more than just a roof over her head. It is a sign of our solidarity and a promise for a better future." In addition to providing a protected retreat, it is important that the women can stay near them so as not to have to return close to the violent perpetrator.

Details on the living situation

The new women's crossing apartment comprises generous 61 square meters of living space and an additional 19 square meter winter garden, ideal for a woman and two children. The expected length of stay is usually up to six months. The twelve municipalities of the Eferding district offer support, which actively contribute to improving the situation by assuming a part of the rental costs. District captain Christoph Schweitzer said that almost 10,000 euros per women's place for consulting services and up to 20,000 euros are provided for the equipment of the apartment.

The project was realized through close cooperation with the Women's Network3 association. Haibach's mayor Andreas Hinterberger (ÖVP) offered the solution in a meeting of the social welfare association, which led to the foundation of this important shelter. The volunteers of the association are active throughout Upper Austria and offer extensive support in various areas at the same time. In 2024 the offer will be expanded to include further living opportunities and intensive support for the residents.

Current challenges

The need for such protective apartments can also be seen in current statistics. According to the violent protection center, there were 32 cases of entrance and rapprochement ban in the Eferding district in 2023, which illustrates how urgently such an offer is. Angelika Langmair, Chairman of Women's Network3, explains that this initiative gives women and their children the opportunity to escape dangerous conditions before there must be dramatic measures.

For further information and a detailed insight into the topic of women's transition apartments, www.meinbezirk.at .