A Safe, Comfortable Place When You Need It Most
Women’s Crisis Services operates two emergency shelters, Anselma House in Kitchener and Haven House in Cambridge, each equipped with 45 beds in a warm, secure setting to support women, gender-diverse individuals and children fleeing domestic violence.
Who can access shelter services
Our shelters serve anyone who identifies as a woman*, aged 16+ (including transgender, non-binary, gender-diverse and two-spirited individuals) and their children, under 18 years of age, fleeing domestic violence within Waterloo Region. If you’re seeking safety, you’re welcome here. We support all cities and townships in the region.
What to expect at the shelter
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24/7 Staff Support – Access legal aid, housing, financial guidance and assistance in planning your next steps
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Individual & Group Support – Trauma-informed counselling, peer group sessions and tailored safety planning are always available
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Education & Healing Programs – Learn about domestic violence and support available to you in a safe, non-judgmental environment
A Menu of Programs and Services
Through various programs and partnerships, we offer specialized services for women and children moving beyond domestic violence in our community. During your stay, you’ll have access to a wide range of supports, including counselling, child and youth programming, music therapy, group workshops and more. To see the full range of programs offered while in shelter, visit our Programs in Shelter page:
We Respect Your Judgment
We are here for you, no matter your decision. WCSWR is dedicated to providing tools that enable informed decisions, promoting safe families.
If you decide to stay
If you decide to stay, but are in need of support or information, call our 24-hour support lines 519-653-2422 or 519-742-5894 or use the online chat in the bottom right corner to speak with a support worker today.
Our Residential and Outreach team can assist you in finding counselling, support, resources and information that keep you and your family safe.
If you decide to leave
Call our 24-hour support lines 519-653-2422 or 519-742-5894 or use the online chat in the bottom right corner to speak with a support worker today.
From there, we will explore safe options for you, including a safety exit plan, if applicable.
If coming to Women’s Crisis Services, you and your child(ren) may stay for up to twelve weeks*.
*Due to the uncertainty and difficulty some may face in finding safe, affordable housing, these stays may be adjusted on a case-by-case basis.
If you have pets
While pets are not allowed to stay in shelter with you, our team will work with you to ensure there are arrangements in place for your pet while you are staying in shelter.
Services dogs are allowed in shelter.