Who We Are
Meeting survivors where they are
Since 1974, Women’s Center & Shelter of Greater Pittsburgh has been a leader in providing safety, shelter, support, and guidance to all survivors of domestic violence. Today, our mission is to meet the individual and evolving needs of those affected by domestic violence by investing in the growth of our people, deepening community engagement, and amplifying the voices of all survivors.
Domestic violence (DV), sometimes referred to as intimate partner violence (IPV), affects all individuals and communities. Our caring and professional staff know that no two situations are the same, and that it is through our common understanding and genuine compassion that we can offer a safe space for healing to survivors and their children experiencing domestic violence.
As one of the oldest domestic violence centers in the country, we meet survivors where they are, offering resources and support to help survivors and their families escape abusive relationships and build new lives. All survivors deserve to have help, healing, and hope.
The Origin of WC&S
Women’s Center & Shelter of Greater Pittsburgh was founded by Ellen Berliner and Anne Steytler as a place for women to meet and be themselves. At that time, the concept of “domestic violence” had yet to gain mainstream recognition. Soon after opening their doors in 1974, they discovered that nearly half of the women who came to them were experiencing abuse from their partners.
The focus quickly shifted to offering emergency shelter for those experiencing domestic violence, with Berliner and Steytler even housing survivors in their own homes. WC&S became one of the first six shelters for domestic violence in the nation, making tremendous strides in spreading awareness and aid for survivors in the Pittsburgh area and at large.
In this world there are always underdogs, and you should help even the playing field. Today’s helpee may be tomorrow’s helper.
Ellen Berliner, Founder
Our Promise
WC&S helps more than 7,500 survivors of domestic violence each year recover from their experience with DV and create lives free from violence. We pledge to protect and support all survivors and their children with high-quality and fair services.
We are trusted partners with local law enforcement, legal agencies, and other nonprofit organizations, which allows us to continue the fight for the rights of all survivors of DV and create a world where everyone can experience love, safety, and compassion.
