Back in 1987, a group of neighbours were united by the same cause: the pressing need for a safe haven for abused women and their children in their community. They founded the Parkdale-High Park Rotary Club, and began the hunt for a suitable site for everything they envisioned. In 1991, they were able to secure a rundown former warehouse, and set about the enormous task of transforming the building into a welcoming new home for abused women and their children. Just like an old-fashioned barn raising, hundreds of volunteers from across the city grabbed their tools and came together. Building materials were donated, and carpenters, plumbers and electricians generously volunteered their services.

“Over 80% of the women leaving
The Redwood Shelter do not return to
their abusive partners.”

Thanks to this incredible community effort, The Redwood opened its doors to welcome the first family on December 6, 1993. Over ten years later, The Redwood has provided crucial emotional, social and practical support to well over 2500 women and children fleeing abuse.

Leaving an abusive situation is one of the toughest things any woman or child has to face. The Redwood provides the emotional, practical and social support that families need to get their lives back on track. Over 80% of the women leaving The Redwood do not return to their abusive partners. The Redwood’s services are truly effective in helping families start new lives. At The Redwood, thousands of women and children found the way out - and the way up.

Erik Hansen & Karen Lightheart