Programs & Services

Domestic Abuse Services Oxford offers many services and programs to support and help families who are survivors of abuse.
All of our services are free and confidential.

Domestic Abuse Services Oxford is committed to ending gender-based/intimate partner violence.

We can help you make the transition to a new life.

We can help you feel emotionally and physically safer.

We can help you learn how to build healthy relationships.

We can help you live a life without abuse and fear.

We can help you change your life.

Brief descriptions of our programs and services are provided below. Please contact us for more information.

24-7 Crisis/ Help/ Information Line

Contact DASO if you are in crisis or if you need help, support or advice about Intimate Partner Violence/Gender-Based Violence.

Call 519-539-4811/
1-800-265-1938 or
text 519-788-9993.

Shelter Services

Safe, secure accommodation for women* 16+ (with or without children) who are impacted by gender-based violence in our 17-bed shelter. Please call first (see telephone/text numbers above) for bed availability and an assessment.

DASO is open 24 hours, seven days a week, 365 days a year and trauma -informed, trained staff are always available. We are wheelchair accessible. Residents receive individual support, risk assessment, safety planning, meals, assistance with accessing community services, parenting advice, information and referrals. Transportation within Oxford County can be arranged.

Take a tour of our shelter!

Click the link below; after viewing the video hit the backspace key to return to DASO’s website.

WATCH THE VIDEO

Outreach Programs

All programs are confidential, free, and non-judgemental. We can help survivors of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) feel emotionally and physically safer while learning how to build a healthier, happier life. We directly assist survivors navigating the legal and housing systems, developing coping skills, and reaching their goals.

Please note that these are not crisis-based programs and run during business hours on an appointment basis. Please expect a wait of 3 business days for most program workers to follow up with you. To arrange an intake for DASO’s Outreach Programs, please contact the Intake Coordinator at 519-539-7488 ext. 246.

Young,Woman,Granddaughter,Daughter,Hold,Old,Female,Hand,Of,Mother

Community Support Program

DASO’s Community Support Program provides one-on-one support for women* 16+ living in Oxford County who have been impacted by Gender-Based Violence (GBV). This program provides 5-10 sessions of empowering psychoeducational and emotional support with DASO’s Community Support Worker. Through this program, you’ll receive assistance with developing coping skills, reaching your goals, setting boundaries, and learning about abuse.

This program also offers an 8 week group for women* 16+ living in Oxford County who have been impacted by GBV. Our Women’s Group offers impactful discussion and psychoeducation around abuse, coping skills, trauma, self-care, and healthy relationships. Connection with other survivors in a safe and supportive environment can be a meaningful part of the healing journey.

To arrange an intake for this program, please contact the Intake Coordinator at 519-539-7488 ext. 246.

Transitional Resource Program

Our transitional support worker will help you overcome the barriers to starting a life free of Gender-Based Violence by providing practical assistance, advocacy, goal planning, safety planning, budgeting, legal/court support and assistance with housing applications/housing search.

To arrange an intake for this program, please contact the Intake Coordinator at 519-539-7488 ext. 246.

Newborn,Baby,Holding,Mother,Hands,In,Heart,Shape,,,Closeup

Family Court Support

Court support services are offered collaboratively by DASO, Ingamo Homes, Family Violence Counselling Program and Victim Services of Oxford County. Our Transitional Resource Worker ensures clients have access to the supports they need at every stage of the family court process. This service facilitates the client’s understanding and navigation of the family court system.

Family Support Program

The Family Support Program offers vital assistance to mothers and their children transitioning from Gender-Based violence to safety. Our Family Support Worker provides individualized support and organizes engaging activities for children to help them process their experiences.

We also offer respite care during appointments, allowing mothers to focus on their needs. Additionally, our program advocates for families, connecting them with community resources to ensure they receive necessary support. Our goal is to empower families as they heal and rebuild their lives.

PEACE Program

In partnership with Ingamo Homes, DASO offers the PEACE (Prevention, Education, Advocacy, Counselling, and Empowerment) Program. This 8-week initiative provides education and supportive counselling for mothers and their children affected by domestic violence.

Moms and kids participate in separate groups, engaging in activities that promote healing and understanding. The program empowers families to learn together and break the stigma surrounding their experiences. Meals, transportation, and fun activities are included to ensure a welcoming environment for all.

14 2 iStock 000005466158MotherHuggingChild

Kitchen Program

Established in 2020 in response to the Covid-19 pandemic, the Kitchen Program at DASO has become an essential part of our community. Our Kitchen Manager and dedicated staff provide delicious and nutritious meals, school lunches, and snacks for residents, ensuring they don’t have to worry about food during their stay. We proudly utilize donated food to create balanced meals, reflecting the generosity of our supporters.

The kitchen serves as a gathering place where we celebrate holidays, milestones, and diverse cultural traditions, fostering a sense of belonging and joy. We also accommodate various dietary restrictions to ensure everyone feels valued.

Beyond meal preparation, our program promotes food literacy and life skills, creating a supportive environment for individuals to connect and share experiences. We are proud to nourish not just the body, but also the mind and spirit of those in our care.