Emergency shelters provide a critical first step for safety—but they’re not permanent solutions. Many survivors leaving abuse need longer-term housing options that are safe, affordable, and trauma-informed.

In Ontario, you have several non-shelter housing options designed specifically to support women and families escaping violence.

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• Temporary housing programs (6–24 months) for survivors

• Often include on-site staff, safety planning, counselling, and legal help

• Residents pay little or no rent while they stabilize and plan their next steps

• Priority is given to women coming from shelters

• Examples include:

  • YWCA Toronto

  • Interval House Second-Stage Housing

  • Nellie’s Transitional Housing

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• Rent-geared-to-income units for women and families fleeing abuse

• Survivors are considered a priority group on waiting lists

• Some programs include mental health or parenting supports

• Apply through:

  • Housing Connections (Toronto)

  • Access to Housing (Hamilton)

  • Your local Service Manager (municipal housing authority)

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• A monthly housing subsidy to help you rent safely in the private market

• Faster access under Ontario’s Special Priority Policy (SPP) if you are:

  • Leaving or have recently left an abusive situation

  • At risk of future harm from the abuser

• Apply through your local housing provider or shelter with help from a worker

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• Feminist-led housing providers may offer safe, stable spaces for survivors

• Often include:

  • Women-only environments

  • On-site staff trained in trauma support

  • Peer community programs

• Look for providers such as:

  • WoodGreen Community Services

  • Homes First

  • Red Door Family Shelter Housing Program

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• With help from VQRP+ or Ontario Works, some survivors can access the private market

• Emergency assistance may cover:

  • First and last month’s rent

  • Moving costs

  • Damage deposits

• Always ask your DV shelter or support worker to help with applications

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• Some shelters and victim services use motel overflow housing for short-term needs

• Can be paired with case management and safety support

• Common when shelters are full or if you require anonymity

• VQRP+ may help cover the cost of these temporary stays

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• ✅ Transitional housing offers extended support and time to rebuild

• ✅ Subsidized housing prioritizes survivors under SPP

• ✅ PHB helps rent in private market with monthly subsidy

• ✅ Women’s housing providers offer trauma-informed spaces

• ✅ Emergency funds can cover rent deposits and moving costs

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• Assaulted Women’s Helpline – 1-866-863-0511

• 211 Ontario – Call 211 or visit 211ontario.ca

• Legal Aid Ontario – 1-800-668-8258

• Your Local Women’s Shelter – Ask for housing worker or referrals

• Victim Services – Help with VQRP+ and emergency accommodation

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An emergency shelter is for immediate, short-term safety, typically for a few weeks. Transitional housing (or second-stage housing) is a longer-term solution, offering accommodation for 6-24 months with intensive supports to help you prepare for permanent independence.

To qualify for the Special Priority Policy (SPP), you must show that you have ended your cohabitation with an abusive partner within the last three months. You will need to fill out a specific application, and a support worker from a women's shelter or a similar agency can help you complete the required documentation.

A PHB is a monthly payment that helps you afford rent in the private market. Unlike a subsidized housing unit, the benefit is "portable," meaning it's tied to you, not a specific apartment. You can take it with you if you move, as long as you remain eligible.

You can apply for emergency financial assistance. The Victim Quick Response Program+ (VQRP+) can often help cover these costs for victims of crime. You can also apply for emergency funds through your local Ontario Works (OW) office.

Yes. Look into housing provided by women-led organizations. These buildings often have enhanced security and on-site staff who are trained in trauma-informed support, creating a safer and more understanding community environment.

The best first step is to connect with a support worker at your local women's shelter. They are experts in navigating the housing system and can help you determine which options you are eligible for, assist with all the application forms, and advocate on your behalf.