FAQ – Genesis House

Life at the Shelter

How Long Can I Stay at Genesis House?

Women who are leaving an abusive situation are granted a 30 day stay at the shelter. During this time women are required to work on making arrangements for themselves and their children for when their stay at the shelter is over. Other women who are seeking housing may be granted a stay at the shelter on a day-to-day basis, as long as there are beds available.

How Long Can I Stay at Genesis House?

There is no cost for you or your children to stay at the shelter. The shelter provides food, safe housing, short local telephone calls, towels, bedding, laundry facilities, showers and transportation on a limited basis. The shelter also provides free counselling for you and your children both during and after your stay.

What Kinds of Rooms are Available?

Most of the bedrooms at the shelter have one set of bunk beds, except for one room that has two sets to accommodate a larger family. All of the bedrooms are comfortable and clean. Depending on how full the shelter is single women may have to share their room with another single woman.

Do You Provide Transportation?

Transportation is available to residents of the shelter on a limited basis and depending on an assessment of need. The shelter makes every effort to provide safe local transportation to clients who must attend essential appointments and cannot do so on their own for safety reasons. For more information regarding transportation please contact a counsellor.

Are Pets Allowed in the Shelter?

The shelter is not able to accommodate pets but can help you make arrangements to have your pet boarded during your stay. Please notify us prior to your arrival at shelter if you have pets and need help making arrangements.

Are Residents Allowed to Drink or Use Drugs?

No. Residents are not allowed to use or possess drugs or alcohol while on the premises. Also if you are intoxicated upon arrival we have the right to refuse your entry into the building.

Children in Shelter

Is Childcare Provided?

Childcare is provided by trained and friendly staff members during weekdays when mothers/guardians are attending support groups, appointments, or working/attending school. Women must arrange childcare ahead of time as childcare is subject to availability. There is no charge for childcare at the Shelter.

Does Genesis House Have a Children's Counsellor?

Genesis House provides counselling both one-on-one and in groups to children and youth up to age 18 who have witnessed abuse. Support for parents or guardians is also available. Counselling is provided at no charge to children and teens. For more information on available programs please contact Genesis House and ask to speak to the Children’s Counsellor.

Safety at the Shelter

Will My Abuser Be Able to Find Me at the Shelter?

our stay and use of services at Genesis House is strictly confidential. We DO NOT give out information about anyone staying at the shelter or using our services without their permission.

Our address is also confidential for the protection of our clients.

In order to maintain your safety you should take extreme precautions when letting people know you are staying at a shelter. Residents of the Shelter are not allowed to give out the address without the permission of the staff as it puts all residents in jeopardy. All visitors to the Shelter must be approved by staff.

How Do I Make a Safety Plan for Myself and Children?

Safety planning is extremely important when you are leaving an abusive relationship. For more information on making a safety plan visit https://www.thehotline.org/plan-for-safety/create-a-safety-plan/#gf_1

Resources available at Genesis House

Can I Receive Counselling if I'm Not Staying at the Shelter?

Yes. Our counsellors are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You can receive counselling over the phone or schedule a one-on-one counselling session. We also offer support groups and other programs to women in the community. There is no charge for using counselling services.

What Kind of Services are Available After I Leave the Shelter?

Women and their children are encouraged to continue accessing counselling and support services after the leave Genesis House. Please ask for more details by contacting a counsellor.