A new 20-bed emergency shelter for women, operated by YWCA Cambridge, will open in Cambridge later this year at Grace Bible Chapel on Grand Avenue S. The shelter, expected to begin operations by mid-November following renovations, will be open 24/7 and provide wraparound support services, including assistance with finding affordable housing.
YWCA Cambridge CEO Kim Decker emphasized the need for this shelter, citing the lack of emergency options for women facing homelessness in the city. She explained that many women experiencing homelessness remain hidden for safety reasons, often staying in cars, with friends, or in discreet encampments.
While the new shelter is seen as a crucial first step, it is intended to be a temporary measure. Plans for a more permanent solution in Cambridge are in development, though no timeline has been set. The YWCA intends to consult with women who are homeless to tailor future solutions to their needs.
Region of Waterloo Chair Karen Redman welcomed the new shelter, highlighting its importance in providing essential supports for women experiencing homelessness. Meanwhile, the region is also addressing shelter needs in Kitchener. A report on the future of 84 Frederick St., a former women’s shelter purchased earlier this year, will be discussed. This facility will reopen as a shelter for single women and gender-diverse adults, offering 66 beds and comprehensive on-site support services.
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