She feared she’d be homeless after abusive ex was jailed. Here’s how she won her eviction case

Gender-based violence is a harrowing reality for many women, as seen in the case of Chantelle Edgar, a single mother from London, Ont. For months, she lived in fear of being evicted from her apartment with her two-year-old daughter, a common tactic used by abusive partners to exert control. Jessie Rodger, executive director of Anova, an organization that assists individuals facing gender-based violence, highlighted how housing can be weaponized to further harm victims.

Fortunately, Edgar received a lifeline when an adjudicator from Ontario’s Landlord and Tenant Board ruled in her favor, allowing her to stay in the apartment despite not being on the lease. This decision was a crucial victory for Edgar, who faced challenges in finding safe and affordable housing in the midst of her ordeal.

The struggle to secure stable housing is a pressing issue for many survivors of gender-based violence. Rodger emphasized the shift in Anova’s focus from solely addressing the trauma of abuse to actively seeking housing solutions for their clients. The lack of accessible and affordable housing options poses a significant barrier for women trying to escape abusive situations.

Edgar’s case sheds light on the vulnerability of tenants, particularly in a housing market plagued by skyrocketing rents and limited availability. Kristina Pagniello, executive director of Neighbourhood Legal Services of London and Middlesex, highlighted how landlords often exploit tenants’ lack of lease agreements to evict them and increase rents exponentially.

Despite ongoing efforts to address the housing crisis and build more affordable units, the impact has yet to reach low-income individuals facing homelessness. Rodger and Pagniello emphasized the urgent need for swift action to protect vulnerable tenants and prevent the loss of affordable housing stock.

In a system where adjudicators play a pivotal role in determining outcomes, Edgar’s positive ruling serves as a beacon of hope. Her perseverance as a mother striving to provide a safe environment for her child is commendable, and she remains optimistic about securing social housing in the future.

As we confront the pervasive issue of gender-based violence, it is essential to provide support and resources for survivors. Organizations like the Ending Violence Association of Canada offer crisis lines and local services for those in need of assistance.

The journey of Chantelle Edgar serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by survivors of gender-based violence, underscoring the critical need for secure housing and comprehensive support services. By amplifying stories like Edgar’s, we can raise awareness and advocate for systemic change to protect and empower survivors.