Shelter and In-House Programs
Indigenous program
We provide a safe environment where women can begin to rebuild their lives. We offer support and frontline services to First Nations, Inuit and Métis (Indigenous) women and children to promote their empowerment and independence. The NWSM is the only women’s shelter in Montreal that provides services exclusively to Indigenous women and their children. Women are offered an up to three month stay in one of 13 private rooms, many of which are capable of accommodating more than one person so that women may stay with their children. There is a zero tolerance policy for drugs and alcohol at the shelter.
By staying at the shelter, you will also have access to:
- Showers and hygiene items
- Clothing and laundry
- Cultural workshops and activities
- Health navigation and first aid
- Meals, as well as traditional food on occasion
- Traditional care and well-being follow-up
- Mental health counselling and support group
- Addiction support
- Listening, accompaniements and Referrals
- Computer, fax, printer, phone, and Wi-Fi
- Job search and going back to school
- Housing rights and housing search
- Help with identity cards (ID) and Indigenous documentation
- Inuit Child First Initiative and Jordan’s Principle
- Legal Help and advocacy
- Support for Victims of Domestic Violence
- Help with taxes
- Postal box
- Help with transport
The INDex was created to support First Nations, Inuit and Métis in Tiohtià:ke/Montreal in finding relevant and up-to-date information on services that were created specifically for them. Our goal is to promote cultural safety and community connectedness.
If you are an Indigenous person living, moving to or visiting Tiohtià:ke, the INDex can support you in your steps!
Need help now?
The Hope for Wellness Helpline is available to all Indigenous peoples living in Canada. Experienced and culturally competent counselors are reachable 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
1 855-242-3310