Who we are

The Shield of Athena is a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting victims of family violence since 1991. We provide emergency shelter, professional services, and community outreach to women and their children.

Our Mission

The Shield of Athena is a charitable organization offering education, professional support, intervention and prevention services that are culturally and linguistically adapted to meet the needs of women, their children and ethnocultural communities.

The Shield of Athena believes in equality, inclusivity, and diversity. We are a non-denominal Canadian charity.

Our Vision

To play a leadership role in helping women and their children, as well as communities, break the cycle of psychological, emotional, verbal, economic and physical violence.

Welcoming Environment

We create a warm, supportive space where women and children feel safe, respected, and understood during their time of need.

Empowerment

We empower women by providing respect and support, helping them regain control of their lives and build a better future.

Cultural Sensitivity

We provide culturally sensitive approaches while maintaining that violence is unacceptable regardless of background.

Our journey

From our founding to the present day, explore the key milestones that have shaped The Shield of Athena

1991

Founded as a response to the growing need for culturally sensitive support services

1994

Opening of our Montreal offices

1997

Expanding our services and opening our Laval offices

2004

Opened our emergency shelter, Athena’s House

2025

Second Step Resource
is here!

2013 Diamond Jubilee Recipients of the Shield of Athena.

Recognition & Awards

Honoring our commitment to excellence and service in the community.

YMCA of Quebec

Winner in Peace Category for multilingual services

2021

Deka-Hellenic Board of Trade

Category of Best Community organization

2014

Diamond Jubilee

Our Executive Director Melpa Kamateros was recognized for her work in conjugal violence, and then an additional 25 volunteers of the Shield of Athena were recognized for their contributions. 

2013

Prix d’Excellence

Réseau de la santé et des services sociaux du Québec ‘’Sensibilisation communautaire multilingue’’ Soutien aux personnes vulnérables – Support to vulnerable people

2012

Plaidoyer Victimes

Multilingual services

2009

Deka-Hellenic Board of Trade

Best Community Services

2008

Retail Comp Awards

Recipient of the 1999 Retail Comp Awards for the Violence Hurts Us All! PSA

1999

Our Leadership

From left to right, Chris-Ann Nakis, President and Executive Director, Melpa Kamateros.

Media Center

News, updates, and more from the Shield of Athena

Press Release

15 Aug 2025

Membership Drive

Press Release

15 Aug 2025

Lilac Event

News

14 Aug 2025

Women’s shelter builds transitional housing for domestic abuse victims

News

14 Aug 2025

Thousands turned away amid women’s shelter shortage in Quebec

News

14 Aug 2025

A Man Was Granted Bail Despite Threatening to Kill His Female Partner.

News

14 Aug 2025

Montreal non-profit to double shelter size due to increased reports of conjugal violence

Annual reports

Transparency and accountability in our operations and impact

2024 - 2025

Annual Report

2023 - 2024

Annual Report

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