Gillian’s Place is dramatically scaling up its support for survivors of gender-based violence across the Niagara Region. The organization has increased its emergency shelter capacity and enhanced its 24/7 support line with new multilingual options.
Expanding life-saving services for abuse survivors with more shelter spaces and language-accessible crisis support.
The expansion also includes trauma-informed activities for children and youth, plus additional second-stage housing units for longer-term support.
The $10 million project introduces mobile outreach initiatives specifically designed to serve rural communities. Following its commitment to survivor-centred values, the organization personalizes support plans based on each individual’s unique circumstances and needs. Survivors now have access to specialized trauma counseling and expanded legal advocacy services, including family court accompaniment. The organization has also integrated mental health and addiction support into care plans.
“We’re meeting people where they are,” says a Gillian’s Place representative. The expanded Family Court Support Worker Program aims to reduce case backlogs, while free legal advice clinics operate in partnership with local firms. Safety planning resources have been digitized for remote accessibility.
Housing support has grown notably with transitional housing extended to 18-month durations. New rent subsidies help survivors secure independent housing, and furniture banks assist with housing transitions. The organization has also implemented an emergency hotel voucher system for overflow needs.
Community education forms a key part of the expansion. Gender-based violence awareness campaigns now target high schools, and workplace training programs focus on domestic violence response. Public seminars address coercive control and digital abuse.
Gillian’s Place has made services more inclusive by extending support to Two-Spirit, trans, and non-binary individuals. There’s no residency requirement for non-shelter programs, and self-referral options have been streamlined via online intake forms.
The expansion is strengthened through collaborative partnerships. Gillian’s Place has signed agreements with six local hospitals and formed funding alliances with United Way Niagara and Ontario Women’s Directorate.
Research partnerships with Brock University’s Social Work Department will help evaluate program effectiveness. The organization’s volunteer network now includes over 150 community members, supporting an integrated cross-sector referral system with law enforcement agencies.
Stronger partnerships are helping community organizations extend their reach and impact across Niagara. Collaboration between sectors creates more effective support networks for those who need them most. Follow more stories of community growth and service innovation on Marketplace Niagara.
