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YWCA women's shelter

east / central Toronto

who are we?

YWCA Women's Shelter has been in operation since 1991. The shelter provides safe and secure emergency shelter for women and their children who are fleeing violence. YWCA Women's Shelter is staffed 24 hours a day and can welcome up to 11 families at one time in our 33 bed shelter.

what we offer:

In additions to shelter, we provide women and their children with food, clothing and diapers. We assist with efforts to obtain housing, Social Assistance, medical and legal help. Our staff, which have expertise in numerous areas (i.e. job readiness, advocacy, housing, parenting, affects of violence on women and their children), are available to work with women as they begin to establish lives that are free from violence. Working from a feminist practice, we welcome women fleeing violence from all cultures, religions and places in Canada. We work with other community agencies which provide counselling and interpretation services.

in kind donations:

Women often come to the shelter with just the clothes on their back. While we can provide women with food and shelter, we are often limited in providing clothing for them. We are fortunate for the community support we have received. Donations of toiletries, small appliances (in working order) clothing that is new or gently used is appreciated. New toys and clothing are always welcome as birthdays and other special occasions that involve gift giving can be a pressure to a mother with a limited income.

Please call our volunteer and donation coordinator at 416.693.6978, ext. 231 for more information or to donate any items.

questions women coming to shelter might have:

1. Will I have to share a room with another family?
   A woman coming to the shelter that has children with her will have her own room. Linens and towels are provided. All families will receive a "Welcome Kit" which includes shampoo, soap, toothpaste and toothbrushes. Women will have to purchase their own supplies once the initial supplies are used.
   
2. Do I have to pay to stay at the shelter?
   No.
   
3. What should I bring to the shelter?
   Please bring your important documents (i.e. birth certificates, immigration documents, and OHIP card, a copy of your lease or mortgage), your children’s favourite things, and any medication you or your children are taking. Please do not bring any furniture or big items. We can arrange for you to move your things into storage at a later date. The safety of you and your children is most important!
   
4. Who will help me get a lawyer and get housing?
   Staff will work with you to establish a plan for your future. We will refer you to a lawyer and to appropriate housing. Staff and/or volunteer are available to escort you to your appointments.
   
5. How long can I stay?
   Our length of stay is dependent on each woman’s individual situation but the average length of stay is 3 to 4 months.
   
6. Where do I call to offer assistance or if I need help?
   Our telephone number for the crisis line is: 416.693.7342
   Our administrative number is: 416.693.6978

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