About Shelters & Domestic Violence Services

Emergency Shelters and Transition Houses provide temporary housing, food, and support for women fleeing violence and their children. How long you can stay varies from shelter to shelter, but typically the maximum stay between 4 and 6 weeks. While staying at the shelter, the staff can assist you as you plan for your future by offering safety, a supportive ear, abuse information, support along with referrals to counselling, financial services, legal support, and housing.

Second Stage Shelters are designed for women and their children who are looking for secure, affordable housing on a longer-term basis. Women do not have to have been residents at emergency shelters or transition houses before securing 2nd stage accommodation. Women can self-refer to 2nd stage housing.

Outreach programs, counselling, and support services are offered out of many shelters and transition houses.

Domestic Violence counselling and support centres provide ongoing and crisis counselling services for victims of violence. As well, family violence programs and programs for children exposed to violence are available at many centres.

Programs vary in every community, so please contact the agency in your area directly.

These agencies provide supportive, confidential services, as well as access to help and safety for those affected by violence. All services are free of charge.

See this page to find services near you.