A shelter for women facing emergencies in Cambridge has been consistently full since its launch earlier this year, resulting in over 77 service requests being turned away in the last two months. Operated by YWCA in Cambridge and housed within Grace Bible Church, this facility is currently the sole 24/7 emergency shelter for women in the Waterloo region, providing 20 beds, although the demand exceeds this capacity.
YWCA Cambridge CEO Kim Decker highlighted the escalating need, stating that the 20 beds filled up rapidly after opening. Women who cannot secure a spot in Cambridge are often directed to the only other women’s shelter in the region, located at 84 Frederick St. in Kitchener. However, this alternative facility, operating with limited hours and resources, struggles to meet the escalating demand.
Decker emphasized the emotional toll on staff when having to reject individuals seeking assistance, underscoring the vicarious trauma experienced by shelter workers. She pointed out that many women avoid mixed-gender shelters due to safety concerns, opting to remain hidden or forego basic needs to safeguard themselves, as they have often faced adverse experiences while homeless.
Statistics from YWCA Cambridge reveal that 74% of homeless women encounter gender-based violence on a weekly basis. Councilor Doug Craig, who supported the establishment of the YWCA shelter, expressed surprise at the high volume of turned-away requests, indicating a need for increased funding and resources to address the pressing demand for shelter space.
Councilor Pam Wolf echoed the sentiment, deeming the current situation unacceptable and highlighting ongoing renovations at the Frederick St. shelter that will expand capacity to accommodate more women experiencing homelessness. Since its inception in February, the YWCA shelter has facilitated five women in transitioning to permanent housing, offering a range of supportive services including mental health support, addiction counseling, and weekly primary healthcare visits.
Describing the shelter as a crucial lifeline for homeless women, Decker emphasized the necessity for additional gender-specific, low-barrier shelters and advocated for a permanent location to replace the current temporary setup in Grace Bible Church.