Women's Support Network
1110 Stellar Drive, Unit 109 L3Y 7B7 Newmarket, ON, Canada

Asking for consent and checking in with partners is an important part of having a healthy sexual relationships, individuals should feel safe to express their boundaries and desires. No one deserves to feel forced into a sexual encounter. If you need support 1-800-263-6734 #community #consent #metoo #culture #ask #support #survivors #webelieve #stoptheviolence

WSN would like you to wish you warmth and togetherness this Kwanzaa. Our 24 hour crisis line ( 1.800.263.6734) will be open for you to connect with us! Happy Kwanzaa!

We know the holidays can be difficult for folks, if you need support, try out our online chat service and text line. To chat online visit https://buff.ly/3a8wqnV #chat #online #text #mentalhealth #wellbeing #support #crisis #intervention #free

Indigenous women are disproportionately affected by racialized violence in Canada" The colonial legacy of Canada has impacted FNMI communities social and economic condition. Due of these precarious conditions, Indigenous women are more vulnerable to violence, including human trafficking. If you need support please call 1.800.263.6734 #MMIW #ibelieve #supportsurvivors #safety #thatgirl #stop #colonialism #metoo

WSN would like to wish you a warm and happy holiday season. Our 24h (1.800.263.6734) crisis line will be open for you to connect with us. Merry Christmas!

We're so excited to announce our 16 Days of Activism T-shirts will be on sale very soon! The t-shirts are designed by members of the community! Show your support to end GBV by purchasing a shirt. #fundraising #support #design #creative #GBV #16daysofactivism #genderequity #UN #UNwomen #femme #print #violence #IPV

One of the important ways we can challenge rape culture is to imagine what a consent culture society would look like. We all have a part to play in changing the way we think as a society. What would a consent-culture society look like to you? #consent #helpfulrelationships #nomeansno #believesurvivors #intersectionalfeminism

According to the American Psychological Association anxiety is an emotion characterized by feelings of tension, worried thoughts and physical changes. People with anxiety usually have intrusive thoughts and tend to avoid certain situations. If you find yourself in a state of anxiety, there are a few steps that you can take to help you cope with the feeling. You can also reach out to us on our crisis line at 1.800.263.6734 #support #free #mentalhealth #coping #crisis #wellbeing

There is a common myth that only males recruit and traffic individuals but that is not the truth. Female friends and partners can also recruit individuals for sex trafficking by using similar techniques such as the love bombing and manipulation. #MMIW #feminism #intersectional #identity #exploitation #resilience #thatgirl #thetruth

The myth that men have a higher sex drive is dangerous in that it justifies aggressive and dominant sexual behaviour of men as well as it drives the heteronormative narrative that women need to meet this need -which is very harmful. In fact, men and women are both sexual beings, and sex drives are affected by more variables than just biological ones. For example, things can changes based on age, health, and other environmental factors. #consentculture #nomeansno #metoo #survivors #toxic #masculinity #culture #society

Autumn is a true inspiration! She is a Canadian Indigenous clean water advocate who is Anishinaabe-kwe and a member of the Wiikwemkoong First Nation. She is a water protector and has been called a "water warrior". In 2018, at the age of thirteen, Peltier addressed world leaders at the UN General Assembly on the issue of water protection. Today we acknowledge the work she has done and support her in the work to ensure all Indigenous communities have access to clean water #feminist #feministfriday #inspiration #truthteller #waterwarrior #ecology #conservation #access #clean #water #future

Try out our chat today! We are available from 10:00 am to 4 pm today to provide support online. You can inquire about services, vent, ask questions about WSN or just test out the chat service to see if it is helpful for you. Just click the "start chat button" on our website https://buff.ly/2ZEvvoZ #youth #chat #youthservice #chatservice #free #mentalhealth #wellbeing #support #caring #safespace

Join us tomorrow for our Youth Self Care Solutions workshop series that includes interactive activities that you can incorporate in your daily life to help improve your mood, energy levels and health. To register please email [email protected] #locallove #selfcare #youth #learning. Funded by Employment and Social Development Canada and United Way Greater Toronto

Being in a intimate relationship with someone is not an excuse for not gaining consent every time you engage in sexual activities. Consent is mandatory so take the time to confirm that your partner is happy, willing and excited. Whatever answer you receive from a partner or you give needs to be respected #metoo #boudary #support #believesurvivors #ibelieve #support #consent

A portion of proceeds from Bingo World & Gaming Newmarket goes to directly supporting a number of local community organizations, including Women's Support Network. We are truly appreciative of the ongoing support. If you'd like to learn more about what they are offering at this time please visit: https://buff.ly/2IoEN2N #community #support #local #company #donations

Folks we are going to be Zoom tomorrow with Natasha Serbinek, Certified Yoga Teacher and Reiki Practitioner Our Yoga session will include Gentle trauma informed Yoga, Breath work, Energy work, sound healing & meditation while connecting in a safe sacred space, accessible for all levels. If you have questions please email [email protected]. Join Zoom Meeting https://zoom.us/j/91577178104 #healing #yoga #free #wellbeing #selfcare

This Saturday, November 21st, we are hosting our first virtual 'Resilience in Sisterhood' Coffeehouse event from 3-5 pm! This will be a family-friendly event, that welcomes all community members to share their artistic and performing talents with one another. Have you or your loved ones created any art over the course of the past few months? Are you missing the joy and rush of performing?! You, and any family members or friends, are ALL invited to register and share your cre...ative self-expression over Zoom. Please email [email protected] with your name and a brief description of the talent that you wish to share. Each act is welcome to 3-5 minutes for their performance or sharing of artwork. You will then receive a link the day prior to our event to participate. #art #share #community #join #zoom #online #creative #space #safespace #sisterhood #resilience #intersectionalfem

We are available to provide support over our online chat service if needed. You can inquire about services, vent, ask questions about WSN or just test out the chat service to see if it is helpful for you. Just click the "start chat button" on our website https://buff.ly/2ZEvvoZ #youth #chat #youthservice #chatservice #free #mentalhealth #wellbeing #support #caring #safespace

Tune in tonight on IG Live! Let your creative sparks fly with us! This art-making event is designed to let your imagination flow by creating art using materials found in the home. From recycled objects to art supplies, to any other objects that might spark one's inspiration-anything goes! Soothing music will also be played in the background create a space that fosters relaxation and exploration #art #free #youth #learning #community #resilience #grow #support #safe #creative #selfexpression

Many people may not be aware that the last residential school in Canada closed in 1996, a short 24 years ago. September 30th is Orange Shirt Day - we encourage everyone to take a personal learning journey to better understand the residential school system and the intergenerational impact it has on communities. #colonialism #canadianhistory #MMIW #supportlearning #learning #youth #orangeshirtday #weremember

Folks wishing to learn more about skills that may be helpful in times of crisis or distress are encouraged to join us on October 28th from 3-5pm for our DBT (Dialectical Behaviour Therapy)-based skills webinar. Please contact us at 905-896-3646 X102 or email [email protected] to register. Looking forward to seeing folks there! #selfcare #learning #brain #yorkregion #free #session

WSN needs YOUR help! We are looking for volunteers to support our Practical Assistance Program, our program needs volunteers to drop off parcels to clients in our program. To ensure the safety of individuals in the program we ensure contactless delivery. If you are interested in supporting this program please email us ASAP with your availability! The deadline for drivers to apply is October 7th. #volunteer #care #support #volunteerneeded #doyourpart #supportcommunity

Self-Affirmations are a quick way of incorporating self care and self love into our daily routine. You can say them in the shower, on your drive to work and anytime you need the additional boost to your day. What are some of the affirmations that you use? #selflove #selfcare #positive #words #truth #selfempowerment

Individuals can be manipulated and coerced into sex trafficking through a variety of methods such as online chats, social media and in person connections. Traffickers may force individuals to pose nude, create sexual videos etc. against their will. #freedom #choice #heforshe #intersectionalfeminism #shematters #MMIWG2S #support #freeservices #femme #thatgirl

TBTN 2020 was a success! We are happy to share the finished product with everyone. #tbtn #tbtn2020 #takebackthenight #wesupportsurvivors #webelieve #community #resilience #endviolence #endGBV

In 2020, we commemorate 25 years since the adoption of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action the global agenda for advancing the rights and empowerment of women and girls, everywhere. We are aware of the gendered and racial impact of Covid 19 and we continue to voice the need for equity and justice in our system #dayofthegirl #internationaldayofthegirl #UN #unitednations #internation #support #wesupport #believe #metoo

Unwanted sexual attention or advance is NEVER okay! Making inappropriate comments and sexual advance to our coworkers is a NO... time to change how we look at office interactions. Making male colleagues feel uncomfortable with sexual comments and advances has got to GO. Time we all did better to ensure workplaces are a safe and welcoming space #harrasment #timesup #metoo #stoptheabuse

Anti-Human Trafficking Case Management includes crisis counselling and emotional support, connections to services to help with housing, finances, social, mental health and day-to-day needs. Our HT Outreach Worker supports women in all stages of the game whether they have long left their situation, are actively involved or exploring options for exit. #supportsurvivors #webelieve #freeservices #intersectionalfeminism#ibelieve

This session will include Gentle trauma informed Yoga, Breath work, Energy work, sound healing & meditation while connecting in a safe sacred space, accessible for all levels. To register please email [email protected] #healing #yoga #free #wellbeing #selfcare

If you need someone to talk check out our new online youth chat, we will be available tomorrow. To access our chat visit our website https://buff.ly/2ZEvvoZ and click the start chat button. Our chat is anonymous and confidential so hop on over and give us a try. The online youth chat is proudly funded by the Government of Canada and United Way of Greater Toronto. #chat #online #youthchat #newservice #joinus #available #support #confidential #message #connect #trained #facilitator #accessibility

You're invited to join us to learn the how, what and why of self care. This one hour workshop includes interactive activities that you can incorporate in your daily life to help improve your mood, energy levels and health. To register please email [email protected] #locallove #selfcare #youth #learning. Funded by Employment and Social Development Canada and United Way Greater Toronto

Violence against women in Canada is a complex social issue. The rates of violence against women with disabilities have not decreased in the last 25 years and women with disabilities experience different types of violence across their life span. By bringing to light the issues women with differing identities experience we hope to create more awareness. #supportsurvivors #webelieve #ibelieve #metoo #canadian #justice #society #intersectionality #heforshe #intersectionalfem

Kenojuak Ashevak is revered not only as an Inuit artist but also as a pioneer of modern Inuit art. Her use of graphite, coloured pencils, felt-tip pens, watercolours and acrylics to create masterpieces that commemorate the beauty of Nunavut landed her her rightful place on Canada’s Walk of Fame in 2001. She not only made room for women in art, but Ashevak was a key player in representing and including Indigenous women as part of Canada’s artistic legacy and narrative. #WomensHistoryMonth #Canada #history #important #womentoknow #learning #canadianhsitory #truth #feminism #feminismfridays

Join us online! You can inquire about services, vent, ask questions about WSN or just test out the chat service to see if it is helpful for you. Just click the "start chat button" on our website https://buff.ly/2ZEvvoZ #youth #chat #youthservice #chatservice #free #mentalhealth #wellbeing #support #caring #safespace

We use September 30th to remember and acknowledge the Indigenous folks who were forced into the residential school system in Canada. If you are looking for a T-shirt to purchase we suggest you consider shopping on Finding Our Power Together's Shopify page https://buff.ly/3hQhjQ2 We hope to see everyone in orange on Sept 30 @FOPT2020 #suicideprevention #suicideawarenessmonth #orangeshirtday #canadianhistory #decolonize #mentalhealth #everychildmatters #notonemorechild #youth #support

Sex work refers to the consensual exchange of sexual services between adults for money or goods. An individual forced or coerced into sex work is being sexually exploited - they have not chosen sex work as an occupation. It is important to know difference between sex work and human trafficking. #support #ibelieve #thatgirl #choices #freedom #rights #intersectionalfeminism

Setting boundaries is an important tool that we can use to ensure others know our comfort zones, capabilities and limits. Personal boundaries help keep us safe and healthy in variety of relationships. At work we may chose to set a boundary of not responding to general emails after your shift is done, or personally with friends about speaking negatively about others. What are some boundaries that you set? #selfcare #tools #boundaries #intersectionalfem #ibelieve #supportsurvivors #metoo

Let your creative sparks fly with us! This art-making event is designed for youth to let their imagination flow by creating art using materials found in the home. From recycled objects to art supplies, to any other objects that might spark one's inspiration-anything goes! Soothing music will also be played in the background create a space that fosters relaxation and exploration. Please contact us at 905-895-3646 x107 or [email protected] to register. #art #free #youth #learning #community #resilience #grow #support #artists #music #contemporaryart #painting #artwork #arts #creative #inspiration #ca

The Womens Support Network of York Regions Anti-Human Trafficking Outreach Worker will be presenting current statistics related to human trafficking and how young people are being affected here in York Region. Included in this presentation are indicators of human trafficking, young people who are at risk, the recruitment process as well as how parents can prevent their children and teenagers from being exploited. #sexualexploitation #learn #supportsurvivors #webelieve #support

We're here to help tackle the myths surrounding human trafficking in Canada! Human trafficking happens within our borders and most of the individuals trafficked are Canadians #freedom #choice #heforshe #intersectionalfeminism #shematters

Our youth chat is available today from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. - if you're feeling a bit anxious or need someone to talk to we are here. connect with us by using the "start chat button" on our website https://buff.ly/2ZEvvoZ . The chat service is completely anonymous and confidential and our server is encrypted to ensure safety. This service is proudly funded by The Government of Canada and United Way. #chat #online #youthchat #newservice #joinus #available #support #confidential

Today the report on Experiences of Unwanted Sexualized and Discriminatory Behaviours & Sexual Assaults among Students at Canadian Military Colleges (CMC) 2019, was published. It states 52% of women and 31% of men CMC students had been personally targeted by some type of unwanted sexualized behaviour, we recommend you take some time to read this report

We are available from 12:30 am to 4 pm today to provide support online. You can inquire about services, vent, ask questions about WSN or just test out the chat service to see if it is helpful for you. Just click the "start chat button" on our website https://buff.ly/2ZEvvoZ #youth #chat #youthservice #chatservice #free #mentalhealth #wellbeing #support #caring #safespace

We're hoping to help raise awareness about Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs), as they are quite common. Anyone of any age can have a STI, testing for infections such as HPV as well as others, is a good way of keeping ourselves and our partners safe and healthy. The media has portrayed individuals living with STIs a very negative light, which can deter people from being tested. Testing is a private activity, even for youth underage you do not need parental consent for STI testing. #safesex #helpfulrealtionship #gettested

Our online youth chat starts TODAY! If you need someone to talk to today, we are available from 12:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. To access our chat visit our website https://buff.ly/2ZEvvoZ and click the start chat button. Our chat is anonymous and confidential so hop on over and give us a try. The online youth chat is proudly funded by the Government of Canada and United Way of Greater Toronto. #chat #online #youthchat #newservice #joinus #available #support #confidential #message #connect #trained #facilitator #accessibility

The Women's Support Network is happy to announce that we are starting an online Youth Chat service starting September 16 at 12:30 p.m. - if you're a youth who needs someone to talk to, has questions about services and agencies in York region, feeling anxious about school please connect with us by using the "start chat button" on our website https://buff.ly/2ZEvvoZ . The chat service is completely anonymous and confidential and our server is encrypted to ensure safety. This service is proudly funded by The Government of Canada and United Way. #chat #online #youthchat #newservice #joinus #available #support #confidential

When someone asks "How are are you" We are not always sure how to respond. So here are a few other prompts when checking in with someone: - How has your day been? - What have you been thinking about lately? - I 'm wondering what you're doing to cope right now? - How are things at home?... - How can I support you? #selfcare #learning #support #checkingin #community #yorkregion #webelieve #supportsurvivors See more

We're happy to share a trailer of our TBTN event with everyone! If'd you'd like to see the entire event join us on September 18 at 6:00 p.m. Email [email protected] for the zoom link. #tbtn2020 #takebackthenight #webelieve #supportsurvivors

Sextortion can happen to ANYONE! Sending sexual images or videos to people, especially one we do not know, can dangerous as it may be used against the sender. Extorting individuals for money or more content is illegal in Canada, but due to the stigma individuals encounter many people chose not to report the issue. The sender may worry about what their loved ones may think, or how the authorities may treat them - exploiters know this guilt is rampant and chose to manipulate and use guilt as a tactic. #weblievesurvivors #metoo #stoptheextortion #ibelieve #supportsurvivors

A HUGE THANK YOU to The 482 Collective for donating much needed school items! The wonderful folks at The 482 Collective packed backpacks with books, lunch bags, pencils etc. and donated other school items for clients at WSN. #backtoschool #donation #communitysupport #learning #donate #learning

"In Canada, Indigenous women and girls are targeted for violence more than any other group. They are 12 times more likely to go missing or be killed." It is our duty to hold those in power accountable for action now. #mmiw #sistersinspirit #actionplan #webelieve #supportindigenouswomen

Taking time for self-care is important to ensure we feel rested and energized but what does practicing self-love, compassion towards ourselves looks like? It can look like having patience and understanding towards ourselves, it can be actively trying to reduce how much we criticize ourselves and so much more. We'd love to hear your thoughts on what self love means to you! #selfcare #love #webelieve #supportsurvivors #wecare #commmunity

We are pleased to announce that our office is open! If you would like to access any of our services kindly call 905-895-3646 to make an appointment. We look forward to welcoming folx into our office again, in the safest way possible. #yorkregion #communitysupport #counselling #webelieve

Individuals who have experienced abuse in their life encounter a number of residual effects such increased levels of anxiety, socializing with new people, being in large groups and even leaving a safe place can be overwhelming. If you need to talk to someone we are here call our crisis line at 1-800-263-6734 we are available 24/7. #heforshe #ibelieve #supportsurvivors

School is only ONE WEEK away! We want to ensure that anyone heading back to the classroom, in person or online, this September has what they need. You can help by supporting our Back To School Drive, we are open to receive financial donations, gift cards and physical items e.g. pens, backpacks etc. Your donation helps to ensure those heading back to school feel supported by their community #backtoschool #learning #donations #support #giveback #doyourpart

Some days we are just not feeling our best, we may feel sluggish, have thoughts about self harming or just not feel like ourselves. There can be societal pressure to "fake a smile" or create a happier exterior but we would like to encourage people to express themselves when they aren't feeling their best. All of our feelings and emotions are valid and it is normal and okay to have days that you're not feeling okay. It is time we normalize all feelings so people can have their experiences validated. #selfcare #patience #learning #growing #intersectionalfeminism #yorkregion #supportsurvivors #webelieve

We are open to the community by appointment only. If you'd like to make an appointment with someone from our youth counselling, sexual violence or anti-human trafficking team for case management or trauma informed counselling, please call our office: 905-895-3646. We look forward to seeing you soon. #intersectionalfem #metoo #supportsurvivors

Funding disparities in Canada's school systems is one of the most visible ways we see systemic and institutional racism at work. Without increased funding from the federal government many First Nations schools cannot open safely to serve the community. https://buff.ly/3gEILj7 #DoBetter #racismhastogo #EducationForAll #increasefunding

Individuals can find it difficult to report spousal and intimate partner violence due to fear of retaliation, judgement by others, financial reasons and general uncertainty. Reporting is not for everyone and people should not feel pressured into doing so as their safety is key. If you or someone you know needs assistance our crisis line is open 24/7 - 1-800-263-6734 #timesup #safety #ontario #intersectionalfeminism

School is only two weeks away! We want to ensure that anyone heading back to the classroom, in person or online, this September has what they need. You can help by supporting our Back To School Drive, we are open to receive financial donations, gift cards and physical items e.g. pens, backpacks etc. #backtoschool #learning #donations #support #giveback

Understanding the array of emotions we feel can be difficult and time consuming but it is important that we identify our feelings and learn to become comfortable with our emotions. Difficult emotions and feelings such as anger, nervousness and grief can make us feel uncomfortable but making space in our life to sit with those feelings can help us tremendously. Our feelings are not bad and they are part of our everyday lives, a way of supporting self-care is naming our emotions and identifying our feelings especially in times that we are uncomfortable. #selfcare #learning #feelings #webelieve

Intimate partner violence is an issue that continues to plague our communities. IPV may be difficult for others to identify or notice as many of the violent and controlling actions happen behind closed doors. Individuals who experience this time of violence can feel particularly isolated from others as they are unsure of how to disclose and may feel conflicted about loving someone who abuses them. If you or someone you know needs to talk please call our crisis line 1-800-263-6734 we are available 24/7. #ibelieve #timesup #educate #yorkregion #heforshe #intersectionalfeminism

As many people prepare to start the new school year in September, we are keenly aware that some may not have all the supplies needed. WSN is asking for donations of back to school items such as backpacks, pens, notebook. Financial donations can be made for us to purchase school items or gift cards can be donated as well. Whatever way you choose to support this initiative is appreciated. #giveback #backtoschool #schooldrive #educationforall