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

Our Story

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: 

MAWS ANNUAL REPORT 2022-2023

MAWS ANNUAL REPORT 2021-2022

MAWS 2020-2021 Annual Report

MAWS 2019-2020 Annual Report

MAWS 2018-2019 Annual Report

MAWS 2017-2018 Annual Report

MAWS 2016-2017 Annual Report

MAWS 2015-2016 Annual Report

MAWS 2014-2015 Annual Report

MAWS 2013-2014 Annual Report

MAWS 2012-2013 Annual report

MAWS 2011-2012 Annual report

MAWS 2010-2011 Annual report

MAWS 2009-2010 Annual report