Zhaawanong 24-Hr Emergency Women’s Shelter

Established in 1992, Zhaawanong Shelter provides emergency shelter and support for Indigenous women and their children who are at risk of violence, abuse, and/or homelessness. Our primary mission is to create an environment of safety, care, and support, tailoring our services to the unique needs of the residents.

The Shelter

For the women and children that stay at Zhaawanong, it isn’t a shelter or even a house… it’s a home. A place that, for many, represents the first time they’ve ever felt a sense of safety and belonging. The term “zhaawanong” means “south” in the Ojibwe language. This direction signifies warmth, change, nurturance, growth and renewal. 

Our Services

We provide a safe and supportive healing environment, as well as intervention and crisis counseling for women and their children. This includes:

• Traditional healing circles
• Safety planning
• Financial resources
• Housing
• Emergency transportation
• Advocacy and referrals to services
• Promotion of overall health and wellness

By helping women and their children break free from the cycle of violence, Zhaawanong Shelter improves quality of life and helps to build stronger, healthier, and safer communities.