Vancouver Community Organizations Helping End Domestic Violence
Vancouver is home to many dedicated community organizations working to end domestic violence. This guide highlights some key players and their vital services.

Vancouver Community Organizations Helping End Domestic Violence
Domestic violence affects individuals and families across Vancouver, but a dedicated network of community organizations is working tirelessly to provide support, resources, and advocacy. These groups offer safe shelter, counseling, legal aid, education, and prevention programs to create a safer community for everyone.
1. B.C. Society of Transition Houses
Overview: A provincial organization with a strong Vancouver presence, representing numerous transition houses, second-stage housing programs, and safe homes for women and children fleeing violence. They also engage in public education and policy advocacy.
Services: Search for a local shelter, access resource guides, learn about violence prevention initiatives.
How to Access: Visit bcsth.ca for a directory of member houses and information on community programs.
2. WAVAW Rape Crisis Centre
Overview: Provides trauma-informed support to women and gender-diverse individuals affected by sexualized violence—often intersecting with domestic abuse.
Services: 24-hour crisis line, individual and group counseling, advocacy, training and public education.
How to Access: Call 604-255-6344 or visit wavaw.ca for program details.
3. Vancouver Rape Relief and Women’s Shelter
Overview: A long-standing feminist organization offering emergency shelter and support services for survivors of any gender-based violence, including domestic abuse.
Services: 24-hour crisis line, emergency housing, counseling, peer support groups, and legal advocacy.
How to Access: Call their crisis line at 604-872-8212 or visit their website for more information.
4. Atira Women’s Resource Society
Overview: A multi-service agency providing housing and support for women and children experiencing violence, including transition and supportive housing options.
Services: Crisis support, counseling, outreach, legal advocacy, and employment programs.
How to Access: Visit atira.ca or call their main office at 604-801-8615 to learn about available programs.
5. YWCA Metro Vancouver
Overview: Offers a wide range of programs addressing the needs of women and families, including those fleeing violence.
Services: Crisis and transitional housing, counseling, family support, and skills workshops.
How to Access: Explore Metro Vancouver programs at ywcavan.org.
6. MOSAIC (Multilingual Orientation Service Association for Immigrant Communities)
Overview: Supports immigrant and newcomer women facing family violence through multilingual settlement, counseling referrals, and legal guidance.
Services: Settlement assistance, language training, family violence support, and employment services.
How to Access: Visit mosaicbc.org for location-specific contacts.
7. Vancouver Aboriginal Friendship Centre Society (VAFCS)
Overview: Offers culturally relevant programs and referrals for urban Indigenous people, including those impacted by domestic violence.
Services: Social and cultural programs, outreach, and connections to healing and safety resources.
How to Access: Visit vafcs.org or drop in at 1607 East Hastings Street for program information.
8. Elizabeth Fry Society of Greater Vancouver
Overview: Works with women, girls, and gender-diverse individuals at risk or involved with the justice system, including survivors of violence.
Services: Legal advocacy, support for court processes, housing assistance, and rehabilitative programs.
How to Access: Learn more at elizabethfry.com or call 604-430-588.
How You Can Help
- Donate: Financial contributions enable these organizations to sustain essential services.
- Volunteer: Donate your time and skills to support programs and outreach.
- Raise Awareness: Share their work and domestic violence resources within your networks.
- Advocate: Support policies and initiatives aimed at ending domestic violence.