Safe and new beginnings
There is no limit to what women can accomplish
Who We Are
Joanna MacDonald established Safe Transitions in 2020 out of the urgent need for relief from over-run shelters. This not-for-profit exists to help women and children move out of shelters and into their own home. Survivors of domestic abuse and human trafficking are among the most vulnerable people in our communities, and often do not get the attention they deserve.
Shelters are inundated with an increased requirement for safe housing. Statistics show that on any given night, 300 women and children are turned away from the shelter system because there are no beds. Safe Transitions acts as an intermediary organization connecting shelters with landlords who will provide safe homes for individuals ready to begin their transition from a shelter to a new beginning.
For some, home is not a safe place.
Some unsettling information shows the staggering rise in domestic violence cases since the Canadian government enforced the “stay home” guidelines. Lives are at risk but due to overcrowding, shelters have been forced to turn people away – back home to their abusers.
Current Situation
In any given night, about 300 women and children are turned away because there are no beds. It is expected that the COVID-19 outbreak will make things worse. – Canadian Women’s Foundation (April 8, 2020)
Domestic violence incidents grew by 22 percent. In the last 30 days, York Regional Police Officers have responded to nearly 700 domestic incidents. - York Regional Police (April 8, 2020)
Traffic to www.sheltersafe.ca has doubled since March 2020.
What our partners have to say
Founding Financial Sponsor:
Our Community Partners
