The True North Society

The True North Society (formerly Wheatland Crisis Society) has worked to interrupt the cycle of abuse in our community for over 30 years. We provide emergency crisis intervention, shelter, outreach, and public education for those affected by domestic violence. True North can support individuals impacted by abuse and domestic violence with emergency shelter, outreach services, public education programs, and we are proud to partner with the Alberta Council of Womens Shelters and the Calgary Counselling Centre.

Emergency Shelter Program We provide a safe place for families and individuals to stay until they are able to make a next-step. Our Shelter is a large family type residential facility that can accommodate up to 25 people (adults and children) in seven bedrooms. Families stay together in their own bedroom for one night up to three weeks. Nutritious homemade meals are offered daily or families are welcome to prepare their own comfort foods in our kitchen. Clients are offered supportive counselling, assistance and referrals on our crisis line and during their stay. If we are full, we will do our best to help families find another safe place. Child and youth care are provided by staff six days a week. Small groups are offered on safety planning, managing stress, self-esteem and positive parenting. Activities such as drumming, massage, healing circles, yoga, meditation, gardening and music therapy have also been provided. Primary funding for our Shelter programs are provided by Alberta Ministry of Human Services and Calgary and Area Child and Family Services. Child and Youth Care Program Our Child and Youth Program supports parents in addressing the physical and emotional needs of the family during their stay in the Shelter, while supplying a safe place for children and youth to express themselves freely and have fun. Community Programs We also run community programs to support the needs of our community and increase awareness of the issues surrounding family abuse. 1. Public Education Program the Public Education program increases awareness and reduces tolerance of violence and abuse. Anti-violence educators are available to schools, service clubs, community groups, agencies and faith communities to provide a number of workshops and presentations on family abuse and related topics. This service is available free of charge. Please click here for more information on the public education program. 2. Outreach Program the Outreach program provides information, referral, court support and advocacy services to individuals and families who are living in our community and are affected by family abuse. Outreach services are provided within an office setting or over the phone depending on the clients circumstances. Some are former clients, most have never stayed in our shelter and are looking for support and information regarding family abuse. Please click here for more information on the outreach program. 3. Childrens Outreach Program WCS is pleased to offer expanded services to children and adolescents. It is our core belief that often the biggest victims of domestic abuse are the smallest in the family. This program provides longer term outreach support to children and adolescents experiencing a variety of difficulties including: Experience/exposure to domestic violence or family abuse, grief and loss, separation and divorce, anxiety, depression, ADHD/ADD and other school adjustment issues. Please visit the Childrens Outreach page to learn more about how to access this program. 4. Community Groups WCS offers Finding our Voices a 6 week peer support group for adult women seeking to work on self esteem and gain empowerment multiple time throughout the year. Please click here to learn more and watch our social media channels for news and updates about the next group. Beyond the Plate a community cooking group also runs 1-2 times per year. Please visit the Beyond the Plate page for the most up to daye information about this much loved family group.

Individuals impacted by abuse

The True North Society is open Open 24 hours, 7 days a week.

Call (877) 934-6634, email general@truenorthab.com, or use the website.

Phone

(877) 934-6634

Email

general@truenorthab.com

Website

http://strathmoreshelter.com/