24/7 provincial toll-free crisis line 18779770007

  • Manitoba Association of Women's Shelters

MAWS provides information only. If you are in danger call 911. If you or someone you know is being abused, call the confidential 24/7 provincial toll-free crisis & support line at: 1-877-977-0007

Beliefs & Goals

The Manitoba Association of Women’s Shelters (MAWS) carries out its work on the original lands of the Anishinaabe, Cree, Oji-Cree, Assiniboine, Dakota and Dene Peoples, and the homeland of the Métis Nation. We respect the Treaties that were made on these territories, we acknowledge the harms and mistakes of the past and present, and we dedicate ourselves to moving forward in partnership with Indigenous communities in a spirit of reconciliation and collaboration.

Our Beliefs:

  • Everyone has the right to live violence-free.
  • Gender-based, family and domestic violence exist because of inequalities in society.
  • Community involvement is essential to address the issue of violence against women and children.
  • A network of service providers, in addition to the legal, social, and political structures, is necessary to address violence against women and children.
  • Public education is key to addressing issues of violence.
  • We can make a difference.

Our Goals:

  • To unite Manitoba shelters and provide a central body to facilitate communication.
  • To provide a unified voice for those affected by violence.
  • To foster networking and information sharing among shelters and between other agencies that work to eliminate all forms of violence.
  • To assist in acquiring resources for member shelters.
  • To encourage the assistance of other service agencies, voluntary organizations, private industry, and government in addressing issues of violence against women and children.
  • To promote public education around family, domestic and gender-based violence.
  • To identify and promote best practices among member shelters.
  • To develop and promote provincial standards for all Manitoba shelters.
  • To foster professional development within Manitoba shelters.