Emergency Women's Shelter
"I like to believe that we are more than a shelter. We provide warmth and safety and wrap around supports to help people heal, rebuild, and move forward."
Cornerstone Housing for Women was Ottawa's first women's only emergency homeless shelter. Cornerstone began with just three beds in 1983.
As of 2024, our emergency shelter supports up to 165 individuals each night. We provide a safe, welcoming space for women and gender-diverse people experiencing homelessness — offering not just a place to stay, but a place to be seen and supported.
Over four decades, Cornerstone has become a vital lifeline in the community: a place of refuge, care, and compassion. Whether someone is seeking immediate safety or working toward long-term stability, we are here with open doors and open hearts.
Our dedicated staff and volunteers lead with deep empathy and a belief in the inherent worth of every person. They walk alongside each individual on their journey, offering kindness, stability, and connection. At Cornerstone, we know that everyone deserves to be treated with dignity and respect, no matter their circumstances — and we are committed to making that a reality every day.
