In 2023, Women’s Place became Birchway Niagara. The change represents a growing understanding that, while women and children experience intimate partner violence at a higher rate, abuse is an issue that negatively impacts everyone and that must be solved by everyone.

A more inclusive name, logo, vision and mission are helping to build on the work that our community has been doing to help end the cycle of violence.

To learn more about the symbolism of the birch and the “life rings” that are featured in our new logo… and other aspects of the evolution of domestic violence services in South Niagara, we invite you to keep scrolling.

The logo’s “life rings” remind us of the rings of a birch, a tree known for its ability to withstand difficult circumstances.

They also resemble a human fingerprint, each one unique and a reminder of how everyone’s path is different, with its own struggles and triumphs.

As allies against abuse, we exist to protect and empower.

As staff, donors, advocates, volunteers and community partners, we will walk with each person who turns to us for support, providing compassionate services to help them find resources and options to meet their needs on their unique journey. We will also work together to build a future that is free from abuse and violence, through advocacy, education and awareness so that we may one day know…

a community without abuse

Birchway Niagara will continue to grow outward like the life rings, providing more services to everyone impacted by violence, regardless of their race, age, gender, sexuality and economic status. Together, we will…

be a shoulder to lean on, a voice to advocate for, a space to feel safe in, an ally to trust, a guide to navigate, and a counsellor to heal for everyone affected by all forms of abuse.