In case of crisis call 911. These programs are available to support kids and teens through mental health challenges, addiction, peer support, LGBTQ+ support, and housing support.
For urgent support:
COAST Hamilton
Mental health crisis outreach and support for all ages.
Crisis Line (905) 972-8338; coasthamilton.ca
Kids Help Phone
24/7 counseling and information service for young people.
Crisis Line 1-800-668-6868; kidshelpphone.ca
For non-urgent support:
CONTACT Hamilton – Single access point for children and youth (age 18 and under) requiring service for social-emotional, behavioural, developmental and/or mental health needs. (905) 570-8888; www.contacthamilton.ca
Youth Wellness Centre – Mental health and addiction programs and support available to individuals aged 17-25. Clients can self-refer. (905) 522-1155 x 31725 or email ywcintake@stjoes.ca ; stjoes.ca/hospital-services/mental-health-addiction-services/mental-healthservices/youth-wellness-centre38 James St S, Hamilton, ON L8P 4W6
De dwa da dehs nye>s (Aboriginal Health Centre) – Provide mental wellness services that are culturally safe for all members of the urban community who self-identify as having Aboriginal ancestry. 678 Main Street East (905) 544-4320 https://aboriginalhealthcentre.com/
Barrett Centre – Mental health crisis program that responds to individuals experiencing a mental health crisis but do not need hospitalization; supports individuals 16 and up. Crisis Line (905) 529-7878; goodshepherdcentres.ca/barrett-centre-for-crisis-support
Drop-in Counselling:
Catholic Family Services – Various counselling, including walk-in and support programs available to the Hamilton community. (905) 527-3823; cfshw.com
Youth Wellness Centre (age 17+) – Drop in counselling Wednesdays 1-5:30 p.m. at Child and Adolescent Services, 100 Main Street East, Suite 220. Ask for Peter from the Youth Wellness Centre at Reception on Thursdays 8:30-11:30 a.m. at 38 James St. S., Hamilton.
Substance Support:
Alternatives for Youth – Free substance abuse counselling available to youth age 12-22, as well as their families. (905) 527-4469; ay.on.ca
Peer Support:
Lesbian Gay Bi Trans Youth Line – Free service provided for youth by youth. 1 (800) 268-9688; youthline.ca
Safety:
Children’s Aid Society – The CAS mandate is to protect children (age 18 and under) from physical, sexual and emotional abuse and neglect. Call (905) 522-1121 (intake number)
Catholic Children’s Aid Society – The CCAS mandate is to protect children (age 18 and under) from physical, sexual, and emotional abuse and neglect. Call (905) 525-2012 (intake number)
Sexual Assault Centre of Hamilton (SACHA) – Crisis Line (905) 525-4162 sacha.ca
Housing:
Notre Dame House – An emergency shelter for homeless or street- involved youth age 16-21. Call (905) 308-8090
Youth Reconnect – For youth age 13-19 at risk of homelessness or with a history of housing instability. Call 905-308-8090