Manavi manages a transitional/safe home called Ashiana for displaced South Asian women and their children. Ashiana provides unrestricted and rent-free accommodation to immigrant women who need time to get back on their feet. By creating a culturally familiar environment where women can share similar foods from the region, practice their religion freely, or speak a familiar language, Ashiana tries to create a safe space for South Asian immigrant battered women who may otherwise feel extremely socially isolated.

Often the women that Manavi accommodates at Ashiana are disproportionately disadvantaged due to the multiple forms of oppressions they face as woman and recent immigrants. Therefore, they might need more guidance, resources, and support to gain independence and self-sufficiency in the US.

Many survivors who seek accommodation at Ashiana are not permitted to work in the US while their immigration paperwork is being processed and therefore have no income. Some women need to learn English and develop other adaptive skills. Many need career counselling and advice in order to find jobs. These survivors at Ashiana usually have no personal social contacts who might offer them temporary accommodation or who may help them find permanent housing.

The location of this home is kept completely confidential to provide residents with security. Ashiana can accommodate up to 9 individuals at any given time. There are requirements that must be met prior to entering Ashiana; these have been established to protect the safety of all current and future residents.

Please contact Manavi staff if you would like to learn more about Ashiana.