In an effort to address the lack of supports for women wanting to reduce their reliance on sex economies, BWSS is excited to launch Thrive, a program that will support women who are wishing to transition, retire or exit from sex economies.
Considering that our work is situated within the context of the Canadian settler state, we recognize that women’s lived experiences in sex economies are shaped by the factors of colonialism, patriarchy and capitalism. As a result, women’s realities range from those of enterprise to exploitation, with varying levels of choice and agency.
Through individualized programming that builds capacity, Thrive holds a stigma free space for women’s diverse experiences to create pathways for different opportunities at a pace women are comfortable with. We take a rights based approach and meet participants where they are at to best identify their needs, goals and challenges.
BWSS has a long history housing of staff and volunteers who are formerly and currently engaged in sex economies. Thrive is informed by experiential voices, as well as adaptable to the needs of participants in the program.
Our continuous intake process helps women find what she requires for her individual situation and needs. Participants can self-refer themselves to the program by contacting Brooklyn, our Thrive Service Co-ordinator, at 604-808-4378 or by emailing thrive@bwss.org. If you are a service provider and would like to refer a woman to our program, please contact Marina to receive our external referral form.
To inquire about training for front line workers email endingviolence@bwss.org
