Nelson House of Ottawa-Carleton, a shelter for abused women and children, is temporarily closed.
The shelter said in a press release that it was forced to close because of staffing issues.
"This was a risk-based decision that was made in response to concerns regarding the ongoing lack of operational oversight due, in part, to the absence of an Executive Director," it said.
The release went on to say that shelter's board of directors does not feel the agency can "operate safely, efficiently or effectively at this time."
Those using the shelter have been moved to other locations and staff has been placed on administrative leave with pay.
The release listed alternate shelter or crisis support options to women who may have required the shelter's services.
They include:
Chrysalis House, 613-591-5901
Interval House, 613-234-5181
La Presence, 613-241-8297
Maison D'Amitie, 613-747-0020
For additional support, or someone to talk to women may contact the Women's Crisis Line at 613-745-4818 or the Distress Centre at 613-238-3311
The shelter first opened its doors in 1992.
