Bethesda House
Helping Women of
Abuse for 32 Years
Riley SpigarelliMESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Our organization is committed to supporting women, their children, and their pets who are impacted by gender-based violence, including intimate partner violence, human trafficking, sexual assault, elder abuse, family violence, and more.
In Canada, a femicide occurs every 48 hours, and every 6 days, a woman is killed by her intimate partner. One in three women will experience intimate partner violence in their lifetime. In Durham Region, intimate partner violence has reached epidemic levels. Tragically, many survivors choose not to report their experiences, which only compounds the urgency of providing accessible support and resources.
At Bethesda House, we are dedicated to breaking down barriers and offering comprehensive support. Our pet-friendly emergency shelter ensures that women don't have to choose between their safety and the safety of their beloved furry family members. In addition to shelter, we offer Counselling, Housing, and Outreach services—available to all, regardless of whether you're staying in our shelter.
We are here for you. If you or someone you know is experiencing abuse, reach out today to learn more about how we can help and support you.
In Canada, a femicide occurs every 48 hours, and every 6 days, a woman is killed by her intimate partner. One in three women will experience intimate partner violence in their lifetime. In Durham Region, intimate partner violence has reached epidemic levels. Tragically, many survivors choose not to report their experiences, which only compounds the urgency of providing accessible support and resources.
At Bethesda House, we are dedicated to breaking down barriers and offering comprehensive support. Our pet-friendly emergency shelter ensures that women don't have to choose between their safety and the safety of their beloved furry family members. In addition to shelter, we offer Counselling, Housing, and Outreach services—available to all, regardless of whether you're staying in our shelter.
We are here for you. If you or someone you know is experiencing abuse, reach out today to learn more about how we can help and support you.
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New women entering
our shelter per month
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Mothers and children entering
our shelter per month
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Calls per month to the
crisis support line
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Are turned away due to shelter capacity
Why we do what we do
What Women Say About
Bethesda House
The violence and abuse I endured at the hands of my husband left me trapped and powerless. It took every ounce of courage I had to leave, but the moment I walked through the doors of Bethesda House, I knew my daughter and I were safe. I finally had hope. At Bethesda House, safety wasn't just a word, it was a promise they kept. The staff created a supportive environment that allowed us to heal and rebuild our lives. I was able to focus on my daughters well-being and my recovery, knowing that I would never be hurt again.
Bethesda House provided me with a way out from my trafficking situation. They helped me create a plan to leave and kept me safe when I was terrified for my life. I have suffered and found myself trapped and sexually exploited all over Durham Region. The staff helped me feel safe, and didn't judge me. They validated my experiences and gave me tools to re-build my self-esteem. They supported me with my nightmares and spent a lot of time with me when I couldn't sleep. I can't imagine where I would be without their support- thank you.
Bethesda House is more than a shelter, it is a home. I had to escape my family's home because they were abusing me and stealing my money, I went to Bethesda House. I felt safe for the first time in a long time. I was able to sleep, share my experience of being taken advantage of and hurt by my adult son, and learnt tools to move forward in my life. They helped me to relocate and I now live free and feel safe in my very own home.
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Bethesda House welcomes and encourages applications from, and provides equal student opportunities to, male and female students, Aboriginal peoples, persons with disabilities, and members of visible minorities. Accommodation will be provided for students with disabilities upon request and if at all possible. Bethesda House is an LGBTQ positive space.