Green Haven Shelter for Women:
A Beacon of Support in North Simcoe for over three decades
For over 30 years, Green Haven Shelter for Women has been at the front lines of gender-based violence in our area, providing essential resources, support and safe spaces for women and children fleeing violent situations. As Orillia’s only emergency short-term housing and support centre, Green Haven has worked to raise awareness and take action against gender-based violence, which continues to devastate families and communities across Ontario, including right here in our own backyard.
“Gender-based violence can have profound emotional, physical, and financial impacts not only on individuals and families but on the entire community,” says Linda Reid, Executive Director of Green Haven Shelter for Women.
Over a hundred women and girls lose their lives to gender-based violence in Canada each year. In 2023 alone, there were 276 incidents of intimate partner violence, 13 human trafficking cases and 142 sexual assaults reported in Simcoe County by North Simcoe Victim Services. These cases are only a fraction of what occurs, with 70% of gender-based violence incidents remaining unreported.
In May 2024, the City of Orillia, along with other municipalities, took a significant step in addressing this crisis by urging the provincial government to pass Bill 173, The Intimate Partner Violence Epidemic Act. This movement is just one part of the broader effort to combat gender-based violence, a fight that Green Haven has been leading locally for decades.
In addition to needing everyday donations such as food items, pyjamas, toilet paper and gift cards, the shelter provides safe living spaces and resources for those fleeing violence in their home. Shelter staff also offer crisis intervention, counselling, meals, social and recreational activities, emergency transportation, referrals for housing and legal advice. “Our goal is to provide support while helping these women navigate the emotional and social isolation that can make leaving a dangerous situation feel impossible,” said Reid.
Green Haven’s Child and Youth Program provides critical support to children who have witnessed or experienced violence, offering safe spaces, counselling, and educational services. “Children and youth who have witnessed or experienced violent situations have an increased risk of becoming victims or abusers themselves,” she said.
On November 9th, Green Haven for Shelter for Women will transform the Orillia Square Mall into a late-night carnival for its AFTER DARK fundraiser and hopes to raise $20,000 for the Child and Youth Program. “This is a first-time event and fundraising efforts will directly impact these young lives, helping us to provide activities and education that foster healing and resilience,” explains Reid. Visit trellis.org/green-haven-after-dark to purchase your tickets and learn more.
“We’re calling on the community to help us ensure that these women and their children affected by violence can heal and thrive,” says Reid. “Our relationships across North Simcoe have been instrumental in making a difference, and we need their voices and support now more than ever.”
The fight against gender-based violence is a community-wide effort. Green Haven, together with local residents, businesses, and government agencies, is driving the change needed to create a safer, more supportive environment for everyone. Investing in prevention programs and supporting survivors is not only an individual responsibility but a collective one. “Together, I’m positive we can turn the tide of violence,” says Reid, emphasizing that with community support, real and lasting change is possible.
If you know someone experiencing gender-based violence, help is here.
For 24-hour crisis support contact:
705-327-7319
crisis@ghws.ca
For more information visit www.greenhavenshelter.com or visit social media @greenhavenshelter.
