When you are ready to leave, we are here for you. Our shelter services are always free and we offer you everything you will need to leave rebuild your life. You can call our crisis line at (416) 252-5829 any time to find out more.
Getting to the shelter
Because of our limited funding, we are not able to provide transportation to get you to the shelter; however we can work with you to get you here safely. Call us and we will work out a plan. If you have a vehicle we have designated parking spaces for resident use. Before departing, ensure that you have disabled any GPS tracking devices on your vehicle so you cannot be located. Learn how to disable your GPS tracking HERE.
We ask that you bring essential items; we do not have space to store furniture, etc. To find out what items you should bring click HERE.
Arriving at the shelter
When you arrive you will meet with staff and complete some very basic paperwork. After that, we will show you to your room and give you clean linens and a basic needs package for you and your children (toothpaste, toothbrushes, soap, shampoo, etc.). You will be given some time for you and your family to settle in and get to know where things are. When you are ready, you will go over the Welcome Package with the staff, and we will tell you a bit more about what we do.
Meals at the shelter
We have a Cook who makes dinner and an afternoon snack for the children during the week. We purchase special items as needed to accommodate all women and children (i.e. tofu, lactose-free milk etc.). The shelter does not purchase pork and when able, we purchase Halal meats. We also have pots and pans set aside for cooking special items. You do not need to pay for food. Like everything else at the shelter, there is no charge. You are welcome to prepare your meals with the food provided in our fully stocked kitchen.
Housing support
For women who qualify for Special Priority Housing through Toronto Community Housing, we will do an advocacy letter for you and assist in filling out your application. For women who don’t qualify, we will refer you to our Housing Worker who works out of our outreach centre and will assist you in determining other housing options.
Legal support
We offer support through the entire process. We assist you in applying for Legal Aid, finding a lawyer and navigating the legal system. We can also attend court with you.
Your life at the shelter
You decide your own goals while you are here. You may continue to work or attend school, you might be focused on finding permanent housing or securing custody of your children. Whatever your goals are, we are here to help. You don’t need to decide anything right away. You’ve made the brave decision to leave and that is the most important step.
Shelter rules and regulations
Women’s Habitat understands that part of abuse is control. We believe women are the best decision makers of their own lives and we work with you to support you in achieving the goals you set for yourself. We operate from an anti-racist, anti-oppressive place and provide all of our services in ways that are transparent and non-judgmental. If you decide the shelter is not the best place for you and return home, we respect your decision. We ask our residents to respect one another, the shelter and the staff.
Your safety at the shelter
Your safety is our first priority. We do not give any information about a resident to anyone without her written consent. Staff do not identify the shelter over the phone and the location of the shelter is strictly confidential. All staff and volunteers sign a Confidentiality Agreement before coming to the shelter.