At WAVAW, we love hearing about and connecting with local businesses who integrate a feminist or anti-oppressive philosophy and practice in the service of building a society where all women are free from violence. These relationships and contributions to anti-violence and woman-valuing work are essential and appreciated!

Guest post by Nicole Pichette

Sexualized violence undoubtedly results in many feelings such as vulnerability, a loss of control over one’s environment and fear. After an event of sexualized or domestic violence, a woman may be in a state of turmoil and transition. Perhaps she has experienced domestic violence at the hand of her partner, and must make the difficult decision to move out of that situation. Or, she may no longer feel safe in her neighbourhood after experiencing an assault in the area. She may rely heavily on moving out of her current situation quickly and efficiently. Furthermore, she may not be able to rely on any friends or family to help her with this huge task. This is where the locally owned and operated company WMovers comes in.

WMovers is a moving company that specializes in performing residential or commercial moving. They provide services such as packing, delivery, removal of unwanted items, landscaping, cleaning, renovation and interior design. Uniquely, all of these services are delivered solely by women. Certainly, this fact alone can result in some scoffing and eye-rolling, highlighting the stereotype that women could not possibly be strong enough or have the stamina to perform large moves on their own. The truth is directly the opposite. Charlotte, the owner of WMovers, states that when the WMovers team shows up at a residence, the typical response is “Where are the movers?” When the client discovers that the women are performing all of the packing, loading, lifting and unloading, they are typically quite apprehensive. However, they are always pleasantly surprised at the efficiency of the movers, the care that is taken with their belongings, and the excellent organization skills that result in a smooth move.

Charlotte and her team are committed to providing organized, efficient moving services for everyone. One of the key mandates championed by WMovers is providing support to women who are victims of sexualized violence. The company is an excellent option for women who may require very fast moving services, aided by the fact that the company operates 24/7. The flexible price point and flat rate of services with WMovers is another reason why this company is so accessible to women who may be experiencing financial barriers, perhaps as a result of domestic violence. The company provides specialized customer service that takes into account the needs of those who may face financial barriers. They also receive donations of furniture for their clients and provide free boxes and delivery, making their services a much more affordable option for many.

WMovers is further committed to providing a level of service to their clients that is comfortable, educated and respectful. Many of their clients may be women who have experienced violence, and would have distinct reservations about allowing strangers into their homes to handle their personal belongings. One way in which WMovers strives to ensure that these issues are respectfully handled is to carefully hire women that mirror their deep core values as a company: providing support and employment that empower women and trans individuals, particularly those facing employment barriers due to discrimination. It is essential that each individual hired by WMovers care about this mandate and support this message throughout their work with the company. Finally, WMovers also has significant community involvement. By partnering in events with local organizations such as Vancouver Rape Relief & Women’s Shelter, North Shore Crisis Services Society, Helping Spirit Lodge Society, Dixon Transition Society, BC211, Mavis McMullen Housing Society, Atira Women’s Resource Society, as well as AIDS Vancouver and Senior Services Society, WMovers promotes issues surrounding violence against women to spread awareness and develop a community.

Through contributing to the community, promoting their mandate of empowerment and support for women facing violence, and providing services that are financially and generally accessible and safe, WMovers is a leader for the empowerment of women in the realm of small businesses. This company helps women who are in difficult situations relating to violence by providing efficient, sensitive moving services. In addition, WMovers also provides a supportive work environment for women and trans individuals, and routinely gives back to their community support network. WMovers illustrates how women can support women, and how a small group can have a large community impact.