Redwood

Founded in 1993, The Redwood provides emergency shelter for women and children escaping abuse. Through on-site counselling and services the charity aims to allow clients to thrive and live independently, working to break the cycle of abuse.

The Redwood has 12 bedrooms, housing 37 beds in a converted warehouse in Toronto. Residents receive 3 meals a day, hygiene items, bedding, and childcare supplies. Peer support groups, art and play therapy, wellness resources, and parenting classes help women and children to work through trauma. Women are connected with other community supports, including housing support services, referrals to subsidized daycare and school registration, job training, and legal support. Clients stay at the shelter for an average of 114 days and remain in touch with counsellors for a year after leaving.