Founded in 1974 by Ellen Berliner and Anne Steytler, Women's Center & Shelter of Greater Pittsburgh (WC&S) was one of the first six shelters in the United States for abused women. Today, WC&S is more than just an emergency shelter for adults experiencing domestic violence and their children. It is a safe harbor that provides specialized care and support for survivors who have experienced all types of intimate partner violence, from physical to emotional, through Emergency Shelter, Legal Advocacy, Hotline Services (now including text and chat features), Support Groups, and more.

Women's Center & Shelter of Greater Pittsburgh began in a small storefront space, offering a simple and safe meeting place for women in the Pittsburgh area. Today, 50 years later, WC&S offers support and aid to more than 7,500 individuals each year, and is a leading regional program for all survivors of domestic violence.

What Your Support Means:
$50 can provide two hours of hotline counseling via phone, text, or chat
$100 can provide one night of safety in the emergency shelter, including meals
$250 can provide ten hours of learning in the Children's Advocacy Program
$500 can provide 14 hours of group counseling for survivors of domestic violence
$1,000 can provide 20 hours of free legal representation for survivors seeking Protection From Abuse (PFA) orders, child custody, spousal support, and divorce

WC&S Values:
Safety: We actively work with individuals and communities to protect against physical, emotional, psychological, economic, and sexual abuse.
Uplifting Others: We inspire hope through listening, believing survivors, encouraging creative expression, and providing resources to plan for the future.
Compassion: We practice wisdom and patience to imagine each individual's experiences without judgement.
Courage: We cultivate bold strength and resilience to venture forward in the face of pain, fear, and grief.
Equity: We stand up, speak out, and take action for diversity, equity, and inclusion for all.
Survivor-Centered Advocacy: We prioritize the needs and wishes of survivors on their healing journeys by creating a supportive, affirming environment that treats all survivors with dignity and respect.
Stewardship: We build and continuously improve our organization's systems to manage and protect the resources entrusted to us.