On any given night in Calgary, 40 -50 families—including 30 children under the age of six—will sleep in a shelter. While many are employed or rely on social assistance, earned incomes still keep single women and single mothers of small children well below poverty levels. And the effect of poverty and homelessness on children is profound. Poor children are at greater risk of mental and physical health problems. Many suffer greater risk of abuse, neglect, delinquency and exposure to crime and violence.

Young homeless women, particularly, are at high risk of violence, rape, and even death. A recent study by the Canadian Medical Association reveals that younger women on the streets have mortality rates 10 times higher than the general population. Young girls at risk of street prostitution and older women trying to get out of the sex trade are especially vulnerable.

The YWCA provides safe and affordable housing for women and children in crisis or transition. Our mission is to provide a supportive environment conducive to positive change. We celebrate the diversity of Canada’s new immigrants and work to enhance language and life skills for integration into the Canadian workplace.

2005 Statistical Summary – YWCA Mary Dover House

Contact Us
YWCA Mary Dover House
320, 5th Avenue SE
Phone: (403) 263-1550
Fax: (403) 263-4681
Email: ywca@ywcaofcalgary.com