Women's Shelter
Frequently Asked Questions
When will the shelter open?
We are working closely with Grace Bible Church and the Region of Waterloo to have the shelter open and in operation before Winter 2024/25.
Who is the shelter for?
The YWCA Cambridge women’s emergency homeless shelter is for women and gender-diverse individuals over the age of 25 experiencing homelessness in Cambridge/North Dumfries.
Is the shelter going to be accessible?
Our shelter is located in the basement the church and there are approximately 10 steps down at the shelter entrance. There is an additional accessible entrance and elevator that can also be used with the support of staff (whenever possible please call us ahead of your visit – a phone number will be available once we have one!). The interior of the shelter is guided by universal standards with accessible washrooms, beds, doorways etc.
Can I bring my children?
This shelter cannot accommodate children. However, the Region of Waterloo does have family shelter options available, you can access this service by calling First Connect-519-749-2450 (8:30am to 4:30pm Monday to Friday)
Can I bring my pet?
We are currently developing a pet policy; please check back for more details as we near December.
What programs and support will it offer?
This 20-bed shelter will operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
It will offer:
- Shared washrooms,
- Showers,
- Three meals a day with easy access to snacks,
- Locked room with spaces for storing personal items,
- On-site security
- Professional cleaning,
- Free laundry, and
- Common areas.
Working from a participant-led, strengths-based model, meaning participants are in control of the services and supports they will access. The shelter will offer wraparound supports, including mental and physical health services, life skills programming, access to mediation supports, culturally relevant supports, and transition support with housing, schooling and employment.
Where is the shelter located?
The current location of this emergency homeless shelter (once it is ready to open in Winter 2024/25) is Grace Bible Church downtown Cambridge.
Is the shelter 2SLGBTQ+ friendly?
Yes, absolutely! YWCA Cambridge aims to be a safe and welcoming space for all women and gender diverse individuals, in all of their diversity. We have strict non-discrimination policies to ensure all participants and service users are met with equitable and supportive programs and services.
Does my immigration status matter if I need shelter?
No, it does not.
Does the shelter have any religious affiliations?
No. YWCA Cambridge is a secular organization and the shelter is being operated by YWCA independently. We will do our best to support the religious and spiritual needs as well as and customs of any guests staying at the shelter.
How is the shelter funded?
The operating costs of this shelter and costs associated with renovating the temporary location are provided by the Region of Waterloo. YWCA Cambridge will fundraise to cover capital costs associated with the permanent shelter.
How can I support the shelter?
There are so many ways you can support our women’s shelter!
1. Make a Monetary Donation
Your financial support is crucial in helping us meet our operational needs and provide ongoing care to the women we serve: weblink.donorperfect.com/ywcacambridgewomensshelter
2. Purchase From Our Amazon Wish List
Help us stock the shelter with essential items by purchasing directly from our Amazon Wish List. Your contributions can be shipped to YWCA Cambridge head office, 102-55 Dickson Street, Cambridge, ON, N1R 7A5. Wishlist: https://a.co/2z3x8cR
3. Explore Partnership Opportunities
Do you own a business, offer a service, or have skills that could benefit our shelter? We’d love to connect and explore how we can partner to make a greater impact together. Reach out to Director of Philanthropy, Nataleigh Ballantyne, if you’d like to discuss this option: n.ballantyne@ywcacambridge.ca.
4. Host a Third Party Fundraiser
Consider organizing a fundraising event, such as a birthday dinner, summer BBQ, or theme night, with proceeds going towards the shelter. Your creativity and passion can make a significant difference in supporting our mission. Reach out to Director of Philanthropy, Nataleigh Ballantyne, if you’d like to discuss this option: n.ballantyne@ywcacambridge.ca.
Where can I ask more questions?
Have questions? Email us at shelter@ywcacambridge.ca
How can I sign up for updates on the shelter?
Sign up for our email list below!
I'm a member of the media: who do I contact for media requests?
Reach out to Director of Communications and Advocacy, Roz Gunn, with any media requests: r.gunn@ywcacambridge.ca