Who are we?

Q. What is YWCA Saskatoon?

A. YWCA Saskatoon is a volunteer and membership-based organization that serves the community at large. We are a registered charity and a member of the United Way of Saskatoon and Area. You can find us at 510 – 25th Street East in Saskatoon, just behind the Community Service Village.

We are a resource for women and their families and provide programs and integrated services that foster economic independence, wellness and equal opportunities. You can find us at numerous locations across Saskatoon. We are also part of a larger network of YWCAs across Canada and around the world.

Q. What is the strategic focus of the YWCA?

A. YWCA Saskatoon’s Vision and Mission are: Vision: A just and peaceful community. Mission: Working to eliminate poverty, homelessness and violence for women and their families.

We have five core strategies including: Take a pro-active approach to preventative programming.Develop a strong and healthy workplace culture and provide fair compensation. Ensure the organization optimizes existing resources by operating effectively and efficiently. Take advantage of opportunities to have a strong voice. Increase community awareness of YWCA Saskatoon – the need for our services, our impact upon the community, and our funding and community supports in meeting our mandates.

Q. How is YWCA Saskatoon related to other YWCAs?

A. We are linked to other YWCAs across Canada and around the world. But even though our network extends globally, we think locally. That way we can serve you better. Most of our programs and services are developed to meet demands that are specific to Saskatoon residents.

Q. How are YWCA Saskatoon and the YMCA of Saskatoon related?

A. We might have similar names but we are separate entities. We have different boards, different mandates and different histories. The main difference is that the YWCA focuses on the welfare and equality of women and their families. The YMCA, meanwhile, is dedicated to developing “strong kids, strong communities and strong families.” For more information on the YMCA, see their website at www.ymcasaskatoon.org.

Who do we serve?

Q. Do you have to be a young woman to get help from the YWCA?

A. Not at all. All kinds of people can use our services and programs. We have something for everyone, whether you’re young or old, male or female. We offer a child care centre, youth and mentorship programs, employment services, counseling and support services, and a co-ed health and fitness centre, just to name a few!

Q. So why are you called the Young Women’s Christian Association?

A. The name goes back over 100 years to our creation. Our founders were dedicated Christian women who were concerned about the living conditions and salvation of young women in their community.

Today, we have a much broader focus. While we still strive to be at the forefront of social change, we also offer a wide variety of programs and services to help women and their families improve many aspects of their lives.

We’ve kept the name because it’s part of our heritage. It also has to do with brand recognition: If you’re in a foreign country and need some assistance, you’ll know the YWCA is the place to go!

Today, the YWCA stands for inclusion and support no matter where you are or who you are.

Our membership is as diverse as the community we serve. We work with everyone, regardless of race, religion, age or gender.

Q. Can men take part in YWCA programs?

A. Men are welcome to take part in many aspects of the YWCA. They can use YWCA Fitness on 25th, and our employment and child care programs are also available to men.

Many of our other services are geared towards women and families. We feel that with our history, our mandate and our limited resources, there is still so much to do to address the special needs of women.

That doesn’t mean we aren’t open to change. We are doing on-going research to see where we can better meet the demands of our community. So let us know if you have any suggestions.

Q. If you’re a charity, why don’t you only serve the poor?

A. The YWCA (and the government of Canada) believes charities have a very wide mandate that looks beyond helping the poor. We are called a charity because we strive to enrich and improve the lives of all people living in our community.

What about money?

Q. Why do you charge money for many of your services when it’s obvious that many people can’t afford it?

A. We charge reasonable rates for the services we provide. But if you can’t afford to pay, you will not be left out in the cold. You can apply for a subsidy for any of our programs and services.

What do we believe?

Q. What does the YWCA believe about equality for women?

A. The YWCA believes in equal opportunities for women and men. We also know, however, that we can’t be idle and wait for the system to evolve all by itself. At the YWCA, we work to foster change by educating the public on the status of women.

We also support and encourage you to help initiate these societal changes yourself.

Q. Does the YWCA become publicly involved in issues that affect the community?

A. As often as we can. We are currently focusing on three key issues: violence against women, homelessness and poverty reduction.

We also work with other YWCAs on a national level on campaigns such as the YWCA Week Without Violence Campaign.

How can I help?

Q. Can I help by donating used items?

A. Yes! There are two options for you to support us with used item donations.

The YWCA Crisis shelter and residence is always willing to accept ongoing support from the community. To find out how your contribution can do the most good please check out our Wish list, or contact us at, email: development@ywcasaskatoon.com, phone: 244-7034 ext 132.

The YWCA Opportunity Shop, located at 5 – 411 1st Avenue North, sells used clothing and small household items. In operation since 1957, and managed by volunteers from the YWCA Guild, the Opportunity Shop is an excellent place to donate or shop for used clothing and small household items very reasonable prices. Proceeds from the Opportunity Shop are donated to YWCA Saskatoon by the Guild. Last year, over $15,000 was donated.

Q. How do I support YWCA Saskatoon financially?

A. If you wish to discuss how you can become a supporter of YWCA Saskatoon, please contact the Director of Development and Communications at development@ywcasaskatoon.com or 244-7034 ext. 132. We are able to accept donations by cash, cheque or credit card. You may also download a Donation Form and return it by mail or email.

Q. Will I get a receipt for my donation?

A. Receipts will automatically be issued for all monetary donations of $20 or more. Officially appraised and new (accompanied by a receipt of purchase) gift in kind donations will receive a taxable deductible receipt, provided their total value does not exceed $500. Gift in Kind donations with a value over $500 must be pre-arranged with the Development and Communication department.

I need to stay at the Shelter. How do I get in?

Q. How does someone access the shelter?

A. You can access the shelter by calling 244-2844.  It is on a first come first served basis.  Staff will inform you if a room is available or when one may become available.  If a room is currently not available, staff will suggest you call on a daily basis.  The shelter is very busy so rooms are difficult to access and it can take up to a few days before a room is secured.

Q. Can I book a room for a few days?

A. You can book a room in our Residence.  The cost is $45 per night.  These rooms need to be pre booked and there is a wait list for rooms.  The Residence is prioritized for those who are residing on a long term basis, however if a room is available in between bookings we will accommodate someone who is requesting a few nights.