Legal Definitions - shelter

A shelter is a place where people can go to be safe from danger, attack, or observation. There are different types of shelters:

• Homeless shelter: A place where homeless people can stay overnight for free. They may also offer help with finding a job, getting medical care, and applying for public assistance.
• Women's shelter: A place where women and their children who are victims of domestic violence can stay temporarily. They may also offer counseling, employment assistance, and medical care.
• Youth shelter: A place where young runaway or homeless people can stay for a short time. Some may also offer long-term training to help them lead independent lives.

Example: A homeless person can go to a shelter to have a safe place to sleep at night and get help finding a job or getting medical care.

Example: A woman who is a victim of domestic violence can go to a women's shelter to have a safe place to stay and get counseling and medical care.

Example: A young person who has run away from home can go to a youth shelter to have a safe place to stay and get help with finding a job or getting an education.

These examples illustrate how shelters provide a safe place for people who are in need of help and support.