Q1: What is the typical duration of stay at Homes?

A1: The duration varies for each individual, with most residents staying between 1 to 10 months. The exact length of time is determined based on the specific needs and circumstances of each person.

Q2: Will my personal information remain confidential while I receive support?

A2: Absolutely. We prioritize your safety and security by keeping all client information, such as your name, address, and status, strictly confidential. Your information is never shared with outside parties or made public.

Q3: Will I be required to pay anything once I am in a better situation?

A3: There are no financial obligations associated with your stay at Ma`wa Community Services. Once you have transitioned to a better situation, there are no fees or payments required.

Q4: What is a Transitional Home?

A4: A Transitional Home is a secure residence designed for individuals and their children who are experiencing an unsafe home environment, are in an abusive relationship, are homeless, or are at risk of homelessness. It is important to note that, unlike emergency shelters, Transitional Homes do not operate around the clock. For immediate assistance, we recommend contacting 911 or 211. These homes are typically regular houses, and their addresses are kept confidential to ensure the safety of the women and children residing there.

Q5: Can I bring my children with me to Ma`wa Community Services Homes?

A5: Yes, you may bring your children with you. However, they must be able to comply with the rules and responsibilities established within the house.

Q6: How long can I stay at the house?

A6: The duration of stay is determined on a case-by-case basis; however, it typically ranges between 1 to 3 months.

Q7: Where is the house located?
A7: For safety and security reasons, the house's location is confidential and only provided to individuals who have signed a confidentiality agreement.

Q8: Do I have to pay anything to stay at Homes?

A8: Accommodation at Homes is free of charge. However, if you receive a shelter allowance through Income Assistance, that amount must be paid to the organization

Q9: What are your hours of operation?
A9: Our regular hours are 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. For after-hours inquiries, you can email us at Ma`wa.info2@gmail.com, or leave a message at 647-971-3653.

Q10: What are the key tasks for residents at Homes?

A10: Residents are required to work with a case worker to develop a Safety Plan, secure Housing, and work on a Self-Sufficiency Plan to gain financial and personal independence. Participation in household duties and meal preparation is also expected.

Q11: Do I need to stay at Homes to receive help?

A11: No, you do NOT need to stay at Homes to receive support. We provide assistance, information, and referrals to other services without requiring you to leave your home. You can contact us at Mawa.info2@gmail.com, or leave a message at 647-971-3653. for emotional support.  Ensuring the safety of yourself and your children remains our top concern.

Q12: Are there any rooms currently available?

A12: Due to frequent changes in availability, we recommend submitting an online application. We will respond within 48 hours to let you know if a room is available.

Q13: If there is no availability, will you still help me find housing?

A13: Yes, if we are at full capacity, our staff will work with you to make other arrangements, including finding accommodations at another transition house for you and your children.

Q14: What documents and items should I prepare before arriving?

A14: We suggest preparing the following documents and items:

Identification (IDs, passports, birth certificates)
Medical records, prescriptions, and vaccination records
Legal papers (e.g., court orders, custody documents)
Social assistance documentation (Ontario Works, ODSP)
Financial cards (credit, debit, health card)
Clothes and toiletries for you and your children
and any essential items for yourself and your children. Money, jewelry, and sentimental objects should also be considered. For a comprehensive list, check our Safety Plan Checklist.

Q15: How can I come to Ma`wa Community Services for assistance?

A15: The first step is to submit our application form. A case manager will contact you within 5 business days to conduct a brief phone assessment. Once the intake process is finalized, your case manager will discuss the logistics of your arrival at the house.

Q16: What services can I receive while staying at Ma`wa Community Services?
A16: While staying at Ma`wa Community Services, you will receive:

Basic Necessities: Shelter, food, Clothing, and transportation assistance.
Counseling and Emotional Support: Regular counseling sessions to help you achieve independence.
Case Management and Referrals: Assistance with job searches, housing, and legal aid, as well as access to other services.
Financial Assistance: Help through the Financial Assistance Program for immediate needs like food and rent.
Spiritual Empowerment: Engage in an Islamic environment with religious activities, prayers, and counseling.

Q17: Is my donation tax-deductible, and is Homes affiliated with a registered charity?

A17: Yes, Ma`wa Community Services is a project of Al-Sirat Al-Mustaqeem Islamic Center, a registered Canadian charity (Charity Number: 73494 5892 RR0001). If you donate online by credit card, you will receive your tax receipt immediately via email. For other types of donations, keep your transaction receipt, and your tax receipt will be sent to you in February of the following year.

Q18: What types of items can I donate, such as clothing, Food, or toys?

A18: We do accept donations of clothing, Dry Food and toys, and household items, but the specific items accepted vary by location based on needs and storage capacity. You can check the list online and complete a form with your available items, and the appropriate home will reach out to coordinate the donation.

Q19: How are Ma`wa Community Services financially supported?

A19: Ma`wa relies heavily on generous donations from our community, allowing us to maintain and grow our services. We have also formed crucial sponsorships and partnerships and are working towards securing government grants to further support our initiatives.

Q20: How can I contribute financially or through in-kind donations?

A20: - We accept Monetary donations of credit cards, E-transfer, cash, and mail cheque.{ One-time and monthly}, {individual and company}.

We accept online donations from all over the world, your credit card will be charged and converted into Canadian currency.
We accept donations of stocks and securities.
We accept Zakat and Sadaqah to Ma`wa and help provide food, shelter, and other necessities to Muslim, immigrant, and refugee women, and children fleeing domestic violence, poverty, or homelessness, we post a list of needed items regularly on our website.

Q21: How can I volunteer my time at Ma`wa Community Services?

A21: Ma`wa is always looking for volunteers with various skills and personalities to make an impact. Volunteering with us is a great way to connect with others, gain new experiences, and contribute to your community. Volunteers assist with events, and special projects, and offer support to our teams and donors. 

Q22. What administration cost does Ma`wa Community Services incur?

A22. Our administrative cost is 4 - 6% depending on the year of operation. Our policy is to cover all administrative costs through non-Zakat first.