The Medicine Hat Women’s Shelter Society is a non-profit organization. Our services are available at no cost and we serve Medicine Hat and Southeast Alberta
Our Vision
All individuals live free from violence and abuse.
Our Mission
The Medicine Hat Women’s Shelter Society supports individuals impacted by family violence by providing them with safe shelter, education, advocacy and access to community resources. We are committed to social change by providing programs and services that promote treating all people with respect and dignity.
Our Guiding Principles
- We believe that violent and abusive behavior is a deliberate choice;
- We honor that victims always respond and resist to abuse and violence;
- We believe that people have the capacity to change;
- We are committed to providing a positive social response to every person;
- We believe in providing a social responsible and financial accountable organization to the community;
- We value innovative practices and strong advocacy that offers a strong public voice;
- We believe that dedicated and compassionate staff can effect change.
A safe haven for those experiencing family violence in the face of a global pandemic.
The Board of Directors is looking toward the future of the organization, including sustainability and evaluating our programming needs to ensure we are able to make the greatest impact in the lives of those who come to us for help.
The History of the Medicine Hat
Women’s Shelter Society
1979
Representatives from helping agencies, professionals, businesses and concerned citizens come together to form a Task Force for Women in Crisis under the auspices of the Community Resources Center.
February 12th, 1980Medicine Hat Women's Shelter Society is incorporated.
April 11th, 1980
First annual general meeting is held.
1981
Funding is approved for an emergency shelter.
First Executive Director is hired.February 1st, 1982Medicine Hat Women's Shelter opens its doors.
1996
The need for a larger shelter is recognized and plans begin.
1998
Construction of new emergency shelter begins.
April 20th, 1999The new emergency shelter, Phoenix Safe House, officially opens in new facility.
2003
The need for a second stage shelter is recognized and plans begin.
2006Musasa House, second stage facility opens its doors.
2007
Phoenix Safe House increases its capacity from 11 to 18 beds.
Official Grand Opening ceremonies for Musasa House are held.2008
Phoenix Safe House increases its capacity from 18 to 24 beds.
2009Treehouse Daycare Program opened.
Housing First Program begins (ran until March 31, 2022).
2014
Phoenix Safe House increased from 24 to 30 beds.
Safe Family Intervention Team (SFIT) program began in partnership with the Medicine Hat Police Service.2015
Funding for Second Stage Shelters is announced by the province of Alberta.
2016Construction of new Outreach facility begins.
2017
Partnership with Alberta SPCA for the Pet Safe Keeping Program began.
2018
Phoenix Safe House begins accepting male victims.
November 1, 2021
Partnership with Alberta Health Services to offer DART (Domestic Abuse Response Team) begins.
The Medicine Hat Women’s Shelter Society is a proud member of the Alberta Council of Women’s Shelters and Women’s Shelters Canada.
Work with us!
It is through our volunteer’s efforts that we are able to meet many of the goals and objectives of the agency.
Ways to Donate
Make a monetary donation now through E-transfer, cheque, online or call us about donating in person. Learn about other ways you can help on our Donations page.