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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.
The Manitoba Association of Women’s Shelters (MAWS) is dedicated to providing a unified voice for women, children and gender diverse individuals who are affected by violence and abuse.
In the mid-1980s, domestic violence women’s shelters in Manitoba began to work together to provide support to the sector’s frontline professionals, reduce the isolation of shelter directors, and stop the competition between shelters for funding dollars. The organization evolved and was incorporated in 1991 as the Manitoba Association of Women’s Shelters Inc., supporting those who work to reduce gender-based violence (MAWS is a registered charitable organization – 88078 6892 RR0001.)
Mission Statement:
MAWS provides leadership and support for organizations working with those experiencing abuse, by identifying and addressing common areas of need, strengthening standard practices and increasing public awareness of domestic abuse.
Membership includes ten provincially funded women’s shelters, as well as Associate members working on the area of family violence.
In order to improve services for clients, MAWS was created and works to provide:
(a) leadership and support to member shelters and agencies in the gender-based violence prevention and support sector.
(b) increased negotiating abilities with funders.
(c) shared information and resources, as well as strengthened standard practices.
(d) increased public awareness.
(e) training resources for sector staff.
If you would like to join MAWS please contact us for more information.
MAWS Annual Reports:
