Hope. Healing.

And a future without violence.

If you or someone you know is experiencing violence, you’re not alone. We’re here to help.

For more than 40 years, Ernestine’s Women’s Shelter has helped survivors, and their children find safety, heal from trauma, and build a life free from violence.

Why we’re here.

In Canada 44% of women and 60% of queer, trans and gender-diverse people have experienced gender-based violence.

It’s as common as it is invisible, and the need for safe, supportive spaces has never been greater.

Since 1983 Ernestine’s has helped more than 15,000 survivors rebuild their lives with shelter, wraparound care, and compassionate support delivered without judgment.

Ernestine’s is a safe place to land and a strong place to start again - on your own terms and at your own pace.

Survivors can access:

  • Emergency shelter for women, children and gender-diverse people

  • Mental health counselling and safety planning

  • Legal, housing, and immigration support

  • Trauma-informed programs for children and youth

  • Outreach services for over 700 community clients each year

How we help

Ways to support

You can play a powerful role in the lives of adult and child survivors.

Donate

Support the long-term healing, stability and resources survivors need to rebuild.

Volunteer

Give your time, skills, or voice to help survivors feel seen supported

Partner with us

Join as a corporate or community partner to fund critical services for adults and children.

In-kind giving

Drop off toiletries and everyday essentials that restore dignity.

Need help now?

You don’t have to wait. We’re here - anytime, day or night.

Our 24/7 crisis line is open to anyone experiencing violence.

We offer support, safety planning, shelter access, and someone to talk to when you need it most.

Call 416-746-3701 ext 0

TTY 416-746-3716

Icon of two telephones sandwiching a 24/7 sign.

Real words. Real impact.

  • “This opportunity has opened so many doors for me and I cannot thank you and the staff at Ernestine's for always recognizing the potential I could not always see in myself. All of you are an inspiration.”

    Former Ernestine’s Client

  • “The staff at this centre made me feel very safe, cared for and empowered. They always made an opportunity to fulfill my needs.”

    Former Ernestine’s Client

  • “I like Ernestine’s because they give us shelter and food. I like that I can make lots of friends and have no danger.”

    Child, Anonymous

  • “Shelter is not a place I ever wanted to go, but I am here, and I am glad I came to Ernestine’s Women Shelter. Thank you for opening your door for myself and my children.”

    Former Ernestine’s Client

  • “Having somewhere that is safe and welcoming is how I feel about Ernestine’s. I have felt welcomed since the first day I walked through these doors."

    Mom, Anonymous

  • “Ernestine’s is a home for me, I never called it a shelter. The people in Ernestine’s are very nice. Specially the staff is very cooperative. They help in every single way. They helps to make things easy. Every member/staff of Ernestine’s is a family for me. They take care of me of every aspect.”

    Former Ernestine’s Client

  • "One of my greatest sources of pride since Ext. Marketing’s founding over eleven years ago has been our ability to support the incomparable Ernestine’s team continue their important work in helping woman and children escape violence and start new lives."

    Richard Heft. President, Ext. Marketing Inc.

Resources and learning

Learn more about gender-based violence, healing, and what it means to be a true ally.

You can make change that lasts

Together, we can build a future free from violence.

Whether your seeking safety, or looking to help, your next steps are here.