What is Shifra Homes?Shifra Homes is a maternity residence and homeless shelter. We protect young pregnant women who are unsure how to parent, fleeing violence, or working to rebuild their lives. Who is eligible to live at Shifra Homes?Young homeless pregnant women between the ages of 16 and 27. Regardless of status (permanent resident, Canadian citizen, etc.) anyone is able to apply for our shelter. Women must be planning to carry the pregnancy to term and choosing to either parent the child or place the child up for adoption. Is there a waiting list?We continue to have a waiting list but the length varies. Please contact our office to inquire about the status of admission.
Do clients pay for services?There is no cost for admission and we provide all of the basic necessities including food, clothing, and baby items, as well as access to counselling. However, Ontario Works and ODSP deduct a mandatory shelter fee from their OW/ODSP Allowance once a resident has moved in. |
Where is Shifra Homes located?We have a single house in Burlington, Ontario, Canada. We predominantly service the Halton Region but are open to applicants from anywhere, provided they are able to make arrangements to come to the home. How many women do your programs support?Our house comprises of 4 rooms, and we can serve a maximum of 5 women and 5 babies at a time. However, outside of our physical home, our network of support for previous residents comprises of approximately 60 young families. How long can a resident stay at Shifra Homes?Young pregnant women can come in at any point during their pregnancy and normally stay until their baby is 6 months old. After that, they are discharged into the community but can apply for continued support through our Seeds of Hope Program. Can residents keep their current job or continue school?Yes, we encourage residents to finish their education and support them in maintaining a form of income such as a part-time job. |
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