Getting help for abuse
What to do about abuse
If you or your children are being abused, call the police at 911 or your local emergency number. They can help you find medical help or drive you to a safe place, if you wish. Emergency shelters, counseling and free legal advice are available for adults and children who are being abused.
There are also rape crisis and sexual assault support centres listed in the first few pages of the telephone book. They are there to help you. In many Canadian cities, there are also 24-hour-a-day telephone help lines if you need to talk to someone. These people can refer you to the help you need.
Many community centres also offer counseling for abusive partners who are seeking help, for families who wish to stay together and for children. Community centres will be listed in the telephone book.
Finding support
There are many organizations in Canada that work to keep women safe and make sure their rights are respected. Some of these organizations work to help immigrant women in particular. Your local immigrant-serving organization will be able to refer you to services available in your community.
Information on shelters and legal rights can be found near the front of your telephone book under Distress Centres, Child Abuse and Sexual Assault.