About Us
1-613-732-3131
1-800-267-4930
Our Address
P.O. Box 244
Pembroke, Ontario
K8A 6X3
613-732-7776
Who We Are
Our Beginning
Bernadette McCann was the founder of Bernadette McCann House. Upon her death, she left $10,000 to her estate, to be used to support women. Her generous efforts provided an opportunity for a home to be purchased. The Agency was incorporated in 1978, and the first client was welcomed in 1979.
A new agency was built within Renfrew County in 1997. Today, the Agency is known as Women's Shelter & Support Services, and the Shelter is still known as Bernadette McCann House.
Funding... We are funded through the Ministry of Community & Social Services,and the Ministry of Children & Youth Services. It is the expectation of the Ministry that the agency fundraise over $45,000.00 annually, as part of our operating budget. Much of our funds are generously donated by United Way.
Board of Directors
The Agency is governed by a volunteer Board of Directors, consisting of women and men living within Renfrew County, who believe in working for change that will end abuse. There are currently fourteen members, involved in four standing committee; Personnel, Finance, Policy/Program and Community Awareness. Board members are nominated to their positions during our Annual General Meeting, held in June. Board members remain with the Agency for a five year term.
Staff and Volunteers
Women's Shelter & Support Services employees 20 full time staff, and a compliment of relief staff. In addition, our services are supported by a dedicated team of volunteers, who contribute a broad range of skills to our programs.
If you are looking for more information on upcoming events, please view our Event Calendar.
If you would like to make a donation to Women's Shelter & Support Services, please call 613-732-7776.
Statement of Philosophy
- It is a basic human right to live free of any form of abuse
- Abusers are responsible for their abuse of women and children
- Assault against both women and children is a crime punishable by law
- A child who witnesses domestic abuse is an abused child
- Women and children have the right to live free from fear and oppression
- Women have the right to make their own choices and to decide for themselves the direction of their lives
- Children have the right to speak and be heard, to be respected and to have their individual needs acknowledged
- Systems which impede equal opportunity and equal right must be challenged
- Diverse backgrounds, lifestyles and abilities of women and children are honoured and respected
- Accountability to the women and children we serve is a fundamental principle of our services