What To Expect and How to Prepare
KNOW YOUR RIGHTS : In Canada, abuse is not tolerated, and both women and men are equal under the law. It is illegal to engage in any form of gender-based violence. Seek help immediately by calling 9-1-1 or local police if threatened or abused. Abuse can take many forms, including physical, emotional, financial, psychological, sexual, spiritual, or verbal.
ESL Translations: Arabic - Filipino - French - German - Mandarin - Spanish - Ukranian - Vietnamese
We do our best to make your experience a little less stressful when it’s time to leave an abusive relationship.
First we will complete an intake with you which takes about an hour. It’s important to look after yourself, so if you need something to eat or drink, the bathroom, a smoke, or just need a break please feel free to ask.
If you do not understand any part of the intake, please ask questions. You may not remember all of the information given at the time of intake and we will be happy to share the information with you again at any time. If you have questions of any kind after your intake and during your stay, please ask. You are not bothering us! Stress is a powerful thing and when in crisis, we don’t always remember what has been shared or guidelines discussed by staff.
During Your Stay
We will be working with you, to help support your moving forward. Its your life, we are here to offer; support, counselling, information, referrals, and or advocacy. We can assist you in making decisions and choices that meet your specific needs.
A Safety Plan For Every Resident
Our team completes a safety plan with you, typically after you have been at the shelter for 3-4 days. It can take 30-60 minutes to complete. This is just a precaution for every woman and offers awareness and tools to keep you safe here, in your own place, or if you decide to return to your partner.
Safety Plan = Essentials to consider bringing with you to the shelter
- Cellphone
- Medications for you and your children
- Money, cheque book, bank books, credit and debit cards, anything financial
- Copies of court orders
- Copies of emergency protection orders
- Birth certificates
- Social insurance cards
- Drivers licenses
- Health cards
- Passport, Status card, Immigration cards and papers
- Insurance papers
- Lease and or mortgage papers
- Divorce/ separation papers
- Taxes
- Keys to car, home, and work if applicable
- Extra clothes
- Address book
- Pictures, jewelry, things that are irreplaceable to you
- Comfort items for your children; favourite toys, blankets, stuffy.
If you feel you need assistance in creating a personalized detailed safety plan, Harbour House is here to help.
You do not have to stay at Harbour House to access Harbour House services. We also have outreach services for both women and children. Remember you are never alone, we are here for support when you need us!