List compiled by Councillor Catherine McKenney.
It’s been a rough two years. If you need help after all the buffets and losses you’ve suffered, you are not alone. Here is a list of community resources you can call on for help.
Residents can always call 211 for information on government and local, community-based health and social services, including emergency financial assistance and food supports.
Financial support
In addition, if you need help with food; rent or rent arrears; heat, hydro, water costs, insurance or arrears; cost of prescription medications and other health-related expenses; or other basic needs, please contact:
Employment and Social Services, Kelly Ford, program support consultant, Kelly.ford@ottawa.ca, 613-580-2424 ext. 15142 (Monday to Friday: 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.).
* Eligibility will be determined for the Ontario Works Financial Assistance, Ontario Works Emergency Assistance or Essential Health and Social Supports Program.
Seniors who are in need of transportation or food support can call The Good Companions Centre at 613-236-0428 or info@thegoodcompanions.ca.
Mental Health Support Resources
- Distress Centre of Ottawa and Region support line 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, at 613-238-3311. In French, there is Tel-Aide Outaouais at 613-741-6433 .
- Counselling Connect offers free counselling sessions over the phone or video call the same day or the next day.
- Walk-In Counselling Clinic (613-755-2277) offers free counselling without an appointment. Sessions are offered in French, English, Arabic, Spanish, Somali, Cantonese and Mandarin by phone or video call.
- AccessMHA helps residents 16 and older connect to mental health and substance use health services.
- 1Call 1Click connects children, youth and their families (from birth to 21 years) to mental health and addiction services and resources.
- Mental Health Crisis Line: 1-866-996-0991.
- Hope for Wellness Help Line for Indigenous Peoples: 1-855-242-3310.
- Kids Help Phone (text available; free): 1-800-668-6868.
- Rocket Doctor (free, covered by OHIP): 1-867-670-2273.