Unity House Emergency Shelter


24/7 Family Violence Crisis Line: 780-743-1190


Unity House serves as the sole emergency shelter in the region exclusively for adult female identifying individuals, with or without children, who are fleeing domestic violence, in crisis and or have experienced human trafficking. With a capacity to accommodate occupants for up to 21 days, this facility features 45 bedrooms.

As a resident of Unity House Emergency Shelter, you can expect secure and confidential accommodations prioritizing your privacy and safety. You'll have access to essential nutritional and hygiene items, along with emotional support and resources provided by our dedicated staff, available 24/7. We're committed to providing you with options and referrals to community resources that best suit your individual needs.

For more information about Unity House Emergency Shelter, please contact us at 1 (780) 743-1190.

What Can I Expect When Accessing Unity House?

When reaching out to the Family Violence Crisis Line, you can anticipate:

  • Responsive Crisis Intervention Workers (CIWs) available 24/7, every day of the year.

  • No requirement to be in immediate crisis to make a call.

  • Upon contact, a CIW will inquire about your needs and offer support accordingly.

  • All inquiries for information, referrals, and crisis assistance will be addressed while ensuring your safety and confidentiality.

  • If facing a crisis, CIWs will inquire about your safety and swiftly assist in exploring safety options if needed.

  • We encourage women interested in shelter accommodation to visit for a friendly chat, with transportation arranged if necessary.

What Can I Expect From
Staff at Unity House?

The dedicated staff at Unity House are available to work with women in deciding their next steps. The Crisis Intervention Workers (CIWs) are available 24/7 to assist women in shelter but there is also the option of appointments for individual support with our Next Steps Support Workers.

The Next Steps Support Workers provide:

  • Education and information about domestic violence and abuse

  • Danger and risk assessments

  • Safety planning and goal setting

  • Information about various community services and events

  • Referrals and resources for individual and group supports for women

  • Transportation to appointments for individuals residing in the shelter

  • Psycho-educational group programming for shelter residents

  • Household items (depending on availability and resources)

What Can I Expect When Admitted to Unity House?

Upon admission, you can expect:

  • Permission to bring a maximum of three bags per person (for example, one mother and two children would be allotted a total of nine bags).

  • Comprehensive orientation by Crisis Intervention Workers (CIWs) within 24 hours of arrival, covering shelter guidelines, confidentiality expectations, and registration procedures.

  • Provision of emergency supplies such as hygiene products, clothing, and referrals for replacement identification (ID).

  • Discussion of pet accommodation options in person or over the phone, as the shelter cannot accommodate pets.

    During your stay, you'll receive:

  • Two fully prepared meals daily, along with access to a variety of other food and beverage items.

  • A room with clean bedding and privacy.

  • Access to laundry facilities.

  • Use of communal spaces including dining area, living room, backyard, computer/library, lounge, craft room, and relaxation room.

  • Around-the-clock availability of support staff.

  • Access to services including Child Development and Next Steps which are detailed below.


In-Shelter Child Development Services

The aim of our Child Development service is to create a safe and nurturing environment where mothers and children receive the support to meet their individual needs.

Here's what our Child Development program offers:

  • Three-week programming for children currently residing in the shelter.

  • Individual or group programming for children while caregivers participate in support groups.

  • Child minding services for up to two hours during appointments.

  • Access to our child playroom.

  • Referrals and resources for women and children.

  • A warm and supportive atmosphere for women and children alike