Please read our frequently asked questions to better understand what we do. If your question is not answered on our page, please post your question here.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

For individuals who are experiencing violence within their home.

What do I need to know if I need help? (Or know a friend)

• Develop a Safety Plan
• Make copies of your ID and other important papers – put copies in a safe place
• Have a bag packed (1 - 2 bags only) There is minimal place to store items in the bedroom.
• Call a shelter’s crisis line
• Call the police if your life is being threatened

Can I book a room in advance?

No, rooms are filled on a first-come first serve basis.

How much money does it cost per night?

You will not receive a bill for staying at Lurana Shelter. You may wish to have some spending money to purchase incidentals.

What if I don’t want to answer questions?

Questions asked by staff are to provide you with the best referrals and resources possible. Lurana Shelter is probably not the right place for you if you are not ready to answer questions.

What if I don’t have time to pack anything?

There is emergency clothing available. It is limited. Staff will provide you with information for a safe way to recover some of your belongings. What is important is to get yourself out and children.

Do you find accommodation for me if I do not want to go back to where I was living?

Staff will provide referrals to you, but you are responsible for going out and finding your own accommodation.

How long can I stay?

Following the assessment period, and a mutual decision there are resources at Lurana Shelter which will help you, the stay is generally twenty-one days. Some women choose to leave earlier. You will make your own decision.

Are there age limitations?

Yes. Minors must always be accompanied by their mothers. Mothers must be eighteen or older. Referrals will be given if you are a minor.
Are people ever kicked out?

Women will be asked to leave if they are endangering the shelter by breaching confidentiality of the address, using drugs, alcohol, weapons, violence, or if the services required are not within the scope of what Lurana Shelter is able to provide.

What kind of help is available at the shelter?

• Safety
• Safety Planning
• One-on-one support from: Crisis Intervention Workers, Victorian Order Nurse, Health for Two Nurse, Occupational Therapist, Psychologist, Child Support Workers, Drop-in Child Care Workers
• Other agency visitors come as needed: Edmonton Police Services, RCMP, Student Legal Services, interpreters
• Information will be provided for outside agencies according to the individual needs of you

Can I have visitors? No.

Can I take an overnight? No.

Is there a curfew? Yes, 12:00a.m.

What about meals?

Breakfast is pick-up. Lunch and Supper are made by a cook. A rotational menu is followed. It is important to schedule activities so you are at meals on time.

Is there a laundry? Yes, laundry soap is provided.

What do other agencies need to know.

What is Lurana Shelter’s Mandate? Immediate Crisis Domestic Violence

Why do you ask to speak to the woman?

It is important for staff to hear from the individual herself and explore whether or not she really wants the type of support provided at the shelter. The staff do need to determine whether the situation is an immediate Crisis Domestic Violence situation.

What if I am not happy about a decision a worker has made about my client?

Clarify with the worker, if the clarification is unsatisfactory in your opinion, leave a voice mail for the director with detailed information. Please include your own name, agency name, and a call back number.

Why can’t I come and visit my client at the shelter?

Because of the communal nature of the shelter, it is impossible to not breach the confidentiality of other residents. Your client will be provided with transportation to your office. Exceptions are made for: Children and Youth Services, Police, etc.

Donations

Do you accept used clothing?

No. Please take your gently used clothing to the Bissell Centre. Our clients access a special program and are able to select clothing and small house-hold items at no cost.

What do you accept?

It is good to call. The needs change. Call 780-429-2002 and ask for the donation voice mail, leave your name and number, and information will be provided to you. Gift cards are always needed for clients.

Where can I drop donations off?

The location for dropping off will be provided to you after the donation is accepted by an Administrative worker. Donations generally are dropped off Wednesday through Friday before 4:30p.m. Other arrangements will be made according to the availability of staff to accept.

May I get a tax receipt for a donation?

If you have the receipt for the items you are bringing in. Yes.