Since 1978
About us
In partnership with the community, Women’s Crisis Services of Waterloo Region empowers and supports women* and children to move beyond violence and abuse through the provision of safe shelter, education and outreach services. Women’s Crisis Services operates two emergency shelters, Anselma House in Kitchener and Haven House in Cambridge.
In addition to providing safe shelter, Women’s Crisis Services offers a free, confidential outreach program for women who are experiencing domestic violence but do not require emergency shelter.
Support workers assess risk and work with clients to develop safety plans, navigate the legal system, provide mental and emotional support, review options for financial support, and find safe, affordable housing. Shelter and outreach services can both be accessed by contacting WCSWR’s 24/7 support lines or via online chat.
*WCSWR supports women, transgender and gender-diverse individuals.
Our Mission
In partnership with our community, Women’s Crisis Services of Waterloo Region empowers and supports women and children to move beyond violence and abuse through the provision of safe shelter, education and outreach services.
Our Vision
A community free from violence and abuse in any of its forms.
Our Values
Respect, Choice & Diversity – Treating people with respect, honouring choice and valuing diversity is at the core of who we are.
Partnership and empowerment – Make us stronger and contribute to our efforts to promote the empowerment of women and children experiencing domestic abuse and violence.
Excellence and Leadership – Our community deserves the best and we strive to be the best in everything we do.
Integrity and Accountability – Doing the right thing promotes honesty and integrity and fosters accountability.
Our History
Haven House opens as “The Rotary Family Centre” on Water St. in Cambridge. Anselma House opens on Duke St. in Kitchener.
The Rotary Family Centre moved & changed its name to “Family Crisis Centre”
Anselma House was rebuilt as a 20-bed shelter.
The Family Crisis Shelter(now Haven House) was rebuilt as a new, 11-bed shelter.
The Family Crisis Shelter name changed again to Women’s Crisis Services of Cambridge and North Dumfries.
Haven House merged with Anselma House to form Women’s Crisis Services of Waterloo Region.
The Board of Directors merged.
Haven House was expanded to 30 beds.
Women’s Crisis Services adapted the Dragonfly as its corporate logo with the tagline “Moving Beyond Violence”
Anselma House was rebuilt as a new 45-bed shelter on Heritage Drive in Kitchener.
Haven House was rebuilt as a new 45-bed shelter on Acorn Way in Cambridge.
