On a bustling street that’s all aglow with coloured lights, you watch passersby from inside a cozy café. Steam from your peppermint latte warms your face. In this festive ambiance, you have no way of knowing that the woman in the suede coat, who just walked by, is in crisis.

Domestic violence happens everywhere, even in the most idyllic communities. It affects people from all walks of life. Victims aren’t limited to any particular ethnicity, socioeconomic status, or gender, though the numbers are largely skewed toward women. In fact, on June 14, 2023 the Halton Region boldly declared that intimate partner violence and violence against women are an epidemic in Halton.

Behind Closed Doors

According to Laurie Hepburn, Executive Director of Halton Women’s Place, domestic violence is an urgent issue that often goes unnoticed. The organization provides a safe haven, information and education to support a future without abuse for women and their children.

“Last year, we saw 180 individuals through our shelter services alone, and hundreds more through our community outreach programs,” Hepburn says. “Halton Regional Police respond to an average of 10 domestic violence calls daily, and this year, 52 women in Ontario have lost their lives due to intimate partner violence.”

These numbers highlight the pressing need for safe spaces where people feel seen, supported, and heard. And as the above statistics prove, victims’ lives are often in very real danger.

Sadly, the perpetrator is often someone very close to the victim. The Government of Canada reports that intimate partner violence comes in many forms, many of which are prohibited under the Criminal Code of Canada. The abuse happens as physical harm, criminal harassment (stalking), or sexual violence (including sexual acts without consent, degrading language, pressure to watch or participate in the making of pornography, and threats of repercussions for refusing sexual activity). Intimate partner violence can also be emotional, financial, spiritual, or technology-facilitated
(cyber-violence, cyber-stalking, as well as scaring, threatening or humiliating someone online).

Bruised, not broken

Despite the emotional and physical harm caused by domestic violence, there is a silver lining, and that is the amazing capacity for the human brain and body to heal. Amid much sadness, people in Hepburn’s line of work witness human resiliency time and time again.

“One individual come to us after years of feeling isolated and invisible, and with time and support she regained her independence and now volunteers to support others on a similar journey.” 

“The stories of those we serve are powerful,” Hepburn says. “One individual came to us after years of feeling isolated and invisible, and with time and support, she regained her independence and now volunteers to support others on a similar journey. Another client and her children arrived unsure of their next steps but left with stable housing and renewed hope.”

It is through safe spaces like Halton Women’s Place that these transformations happen.

How to Help

You can support Halton Women’s Place by donating, volunteering, or simply raising awareness. This season’s Holiday Hamper Program provides essential items and gifts to families in the care of Halton Women’s Place and those transitioning to independence.

“It’s a meaningful way to bring comfort during the holidays, ensuring everyone feels valued,” Hepburn says. Following the holiday season, Halton Women’s Place will host its annual gala in February (see below).

Domestic abuse affects everyone, which is why every community member has a role in making people feel supported and valued. The more we build a supportive environment, the stronger our community becomes.“Every contribution helps us continue to create safe spaces for those who need it,” Hepburn says. “Creating safe spaces isn’t just about physical shelter, it’s about showing people they’re not alone.”

Crystal Ball Gala

An elegant night of philanthropy, this annual fundraising gala helps to advance the mission of Halton Women’s Place of providing safe shelter, support, and advocacy.

February 22, 2025 | Doors Open at 5:30PM
Oakville Conference Centre

Details and tickets: haltonwomensplace.com/gala

3 Ways to Help Local Women and Children

1.  Grant a Shelter Wish: Your donation helps fund essential items like cozy bedding, winter boots, or baby care bundles, giving women and children safety and comfort when they need it most. Every wish granted is a step toward a fresh start.
2. Holiday Hamper Gift Drive: By donating gift cards, you give women the power to choose exactly what their families need—whether it’s groceries, gifts, or something that brings a little joy and normalcy back into their lives. To participate, you will need to fill out an online form to be matched with a family. This program fills up quickly, so register early to help make the holidays brighter for a family in need.
3. Start Monthly Giving: The need for support doesn’t stop after the holidays. Monthly donors ensure that women and children have ongoing access to safe shelter, basic needs, and vital resources all year long.

By Michelle Morra