Crisis & Safety
When safety is at risk, Desert Sun is here. Our crisis and shelter programs provide confidential, free support for women, children, and youth in the South Okanagan - day or night.
Our crisis services operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. No matter when you reach out, a trained professional is ready to help. You do not need a referral to access any crisis service.
Every crisis and safety program at Desert Sun is provided at no cost to clients. Your privacy is our priority. Information shared with us is kept strictly confidential.
Cindy Taylor Safe Home
The Cindy Taylor Safe Home is a confidential emergency shelter providing safe housing and support for women and their children who are fleeing abusive situations. We understand that leaving is often the most dangerous time, and our safe home is designed to be a true refuge.
The shelter location is kept confidential to protect client safety. The safe home is pet-friendly and operates as a dry facility, meaning it is alcohol and drug-free. Staff provide practical support and can connect clients to additional services including legal information, housing resources, and ongoing counselling.
What the Safe Home Provides
Secure, confidential housing for you and your children. Location kept private to ensure your safety.
Your pets can come too. We know leaving your animals behind can be a barrier to safety - we remove that barrier.
Staff can help with safety planning, legal information, housing next steps, and referrals to community resources.
Women’s Crisis Line
The Women’s Crisis Line is a confidential phone line for women in the South Okanagan who are experiencing, or at risk of, family violence. When you call, you will speak with a trained professional who can provide immediate support, answer your questions, and connect you with the right resources.
This service provides support and information - it is not a counselling line. If you are looking for ongoing counselling support, our Stopping the Violence Counselling program may be right for you.
Youth Shelter
Desert Sun’s Youth Shelter provides a safe, supportive home for young people who are at risk of, or experiencing, homelessness. We believe every young person deserves stability and the chance to move forward.
What We Provide
Shelter & SupportThe Youth Shelter provides immediate, practical support to young people in crisis, a safe place to sleep, food, clothing, and connection to services that help them rebuild stability.
How to Access
No Referral NeededYouth can reach out directly or be referred by a school, MCFD, health professional, or community service. All services are free and no referral is required to make first contact.
“Every young person deserves to feel safe. The Youth Shelter exists because we believe no young person should face homelessness alone.”
- Desert Sun Counselling and Resource Centre SocietyIf You Are in Immediate Danger
If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 911 first. Once you are safe, contact Desert Sun for shelter and ongoing support.
Looking for Other Support?
In addition to crisis services, Desert Sun offers counselling, parenting support, seniors’ programs, and more - all free and confidential.
View All ProgramsHelp us keep these services available
Crisis services are free because of the generous support of our funders and donors. Your contribution helps ensure these programs remain available when they are needed most.