Ann Godderis, representing the Trail Family and Individual Resource Society (Trail FAIR), described the memory walk organized by the BC Nurses Union in downtown Trail as both heartwarming and profoundly significant.
The event, held on Thursday, Dec. 5, honoured the memory of Lindsay Danchella, of Trail, as well as women in B.C., Canada, and around the world whose lives have been tragically cut short by their spouses, partners, or ex-partners.
“We need to feel the heartbreak of those left behind—parents, siblings, children, and friends grieving their loved ones,” Godderis said at the event.
She also emphasized the ongoing reality of women in the local area living in constant fear, “walking on eggshells, wondering when the next cruelty will occur in their own homes, which should be places of safety but often are not.”
Ending this violence, she stated, requires collective and individual action.
“It’s going to take all of us working together, but I believe each of us can make a difference. Being here today is something.”
Godderis highlighted a critical issue: many women are unaware of available services until they or someone close to them faces violence.
She frequently hears women say they had no idea that resources like the transition house, victim services, or free counselling even existed until they needed help.
This gap in awareness is one reason she spoke at the event—to inform attendees about the free support services provided by Trail FAIR.
She explained that Trail FAIR staff are committed to connecting anyone experiencing abuse or violence with the right resources, whether through their own programs or by directing them to other community organizations.
For immediate support, she encouraged anyone in need to call the Trail FAIR Transition House’s confidential 24/7 phone line at 250-364-1543.
Godderis also detailed Trail FAIR’s range of services.
For those leaving or considering leaving an abusive relationship, the organization’s victim services staff can provide guidance, support, and even court accompaniment when needed.
Trail FAIR offers free counselling and support groups to help women and their children heal from the trauma of abuse.
Additionally, a Trail FAIR counsellor works in local schools to educate students and staff about violence prevention.
Most women won’t need to use the FAIR Transition House, Godderis noted, but for those who must leave an abusive home suddenly, the house provides free, confidential shelter and support for women, children, and even pets.
Staff also assist women in accessing services to rebuild their lives.
For longer-term support, Trail FAIR offers the Second Stage housing program — low-cost accommodations where women, children, and pets can stay for up to 18 months while accessing counselling and other recovery supports.
Godderis stressed the importance of community awareness and collaboration in addressing violence against women.
Trail FAIR staff work with local agencies to foster awareness and respond to high-risk situations.
Beyond anti-violence initiatives, Trail FAIR offers a variety of free services that strengthen individuals, families, and the community as a whole.
Attendees were encouraged to sign a letter to Premier David Eby, which outlined urgent needs for funding and resources.
Among these priorities, Godderis highlighted the necessity of long-term funding for prevention services, including free counselling and support for men struggling with relationships and exhibiting early signs of coercion or violence.
Currently, she explained, men can only access free anti-violence programs after being found guilty of intimate partner violence — a system that intervenes too late to prevent harm.
Another pressing need, she added, is the creation of more local, nonprofit, low-cost housing to provide women, children, and pets with affordable living options after leaving abusive relationships or transitioning from shelters.
“Fulfilling these needs would make a significant difference,” Godderis concluded.
“Thank you for all you do — and will do — to help end this epidemic of misogyny, violence, and abuse.”
On Nov. 4, the Trail RCMP responded to a call in Montrose of a male assaulting a female on the front lawn of a residence.
Upon attendance, first responders found Lindsay Danchella suffering from significant injuries.
She was transported to Kootenay Boundary Regional Hospital, where she died shortly thereafter.
Her ex-husband, Donald Danchella, is in custody charged with second degree murder.
