GVWSS (Greater Victoria Women’s Shelter Society)

The Greater Victoria Women’s Shelter Society (GVWSS) is the non-profit society responsible for founding Margaret Laurence House. Since 1986, the mandate of the Greater Victoria Women’s Shelter Society has been to overcome violence against women and to provide shelter and support for women in need. These needs may range from protection from violence and abuse, financial crisis, health problems or simply emergency, short-term shelter. The Society believes, as stated in our Constitution, that “adequate housing is a fundamental right for all persons regardless of circumstances.”

The founding members of the GVWSS chose as their first priority the provision of second stage housing for women and their children leaving abusive relationships. This goal was achieved in 1995 when Margaret Laurence House opened, providing 6 units of safe, affordable housing along with support and advocacy services.

The Greater Victoria Women’s Shelter Society continues to work towards the goal of supporting women and their children.