Calgary Woman's Emergency Shelter

Is family violence a problem in Calgary?

Yes. The Calgary Police Service spends more time responding to calls about domestic violence than any other crime.

Is family violence dangerous?

Yes. 27% of all homicides between 2002-2007 were related to domestic violence. Around 60% of all women who enter the Shelter program are at extreme or severe risk of being murdered by their partner.

Are all types of abuse dangerous?

Depending on the abuser, he may never have to hit his partner to show he intends to severely harm her. For instance, he may threaten her life, threaten to take her children or stalk her - all severe forms of abuse with no physical contact.

How common is family violence?

Family violence is the single greatest social issue facing our community. One in three women will experience family violence at the hands of their partners during their lifetime. Three to five children in each Canadian classroom have seen their mother be assaulted.

How is society impacted by family violence?

Family violence costs our society billions of dollars in lost wages, healthcare and legal costs.

What is resistance?

Resistance is a word used to describe the many ways victims of abuse survive amidst violence. Resistance includes strategies for staying safe, keeping a person's identity and showing they are not in agreement with the violence.

How is abusing a choice?

We believe being abusive is a choice and have seen many men make changes to stop hurting their partner and children. Many individuals grow up in abusive households and make a promise to themselves and their loved ones to never hurt another person like they were hurt themselves.