Optimism Place

Providing Prevention, Intervention, Education & Advocacy

Welcome to Optimism Place

  • Residential Shelter

    It’s more than a bed – in residence, women and their children have access to our staff team 24/7, a well-equipped backyard, connections to income and housing supports, support navigating the criminal and family court system and any practical support they require as they take steps towards rebuilding their lives while calling Optimism Place their temporary home.

  • Services & Support

    Optimism Place provides comprehensive support to women and children affected by abuse, offering safe housing, legal advocacy, counselling, and specialized programs. Through wraparound services and community partnerships, we empower women to rebuild their lives with safety and independence.

  • 24-7 Support Line: 519-271-5550

    Through our 24-hour support phone line, our experienced staff are available to women experiencing abuse of any kind, as well as concerned friends, coworkers and family members. Our trained and professional staff offer emotional and practical support, emergency shelter, referrals to our programs and connections to community services.

Serving our community as the only emergency service for women and their children experiencing violence since 1983

We offer a variety of services and support to all women. For thousands of families, we’ve been a safe refuge, a place to find support and resources, and a place to temporarily call home. It’s our mission to support women and their children and provide them with confidential, non-judgemental services.

Interior view of an office with a long reception desk, a window with a plant outside, a bulletin board, a whiteboard, a bookshelf, computers, and a closed wooden door.

Discover what to expect upon arrival and find answers to common questions:

Our Shelter

In 2024/2025…

Every woman who came to us in need of shelter found a safe place to stay. During this time, we saw a 32% increase in the number of women served and a 45% increase in the number of children supported.

Indoor room with green and beige floor, white chairs around tables, door to outside and a small room with toys and a black couch in the background.

Former Resident

“Years later I’m in college still putting the pieces of my life back together because you guys were there when I needed it. Forever grateful.”

Make an impact today

Support women & children in Perth County by donating

Optimism Place’s Not ok. Campaign

A man and woman sitting together on a couch watching television, with the woman appearing upset or angry. The man has a beard and tattoos on his arm, holding a bowl of popcorn. The woman has dark hair and a neutral expression. There is a potted plant and a shelf with books in the background. Overlaid text reads: "He won’t let her go out without him. Not ok."

Police across Perth County receive more than 600 calls each year related to intimate partner violence. Many more suffer in silence. It happens here — and it’s Not ok.

The Not ok. campaign makes the warning signs of intimate partner violence visible, helping our community learn how to recognize, respond, and offer support. Together, we can ensure abuse is never ignored — and no one feels alone.

Join the movement. Find resources, posters, and ways to get involved.

Visit the Campaign Website

Contact Optimism Place

Aerial view of a residential area with modern apartments, green trees, and a parking lot.

24/7 Support Line: 519-271-5550 | 1-800-265-8598 (toll-free)


Address:
270 Freeland Drive, Stratford, ON, N4Z1G8


*Please note: emails are not monitored on a 24/7 basis - if you are in need of immediate support, please call our 24/7 support line or emergency services. If you have any further questions or inquiries about accessing our services, please call our 24/7 support line.