Community Resources

Crisis Support & Grief

  • If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts in the Kitchener-Waterloo area, several resources are available to help:

    1. Here 24/7: Provides access to mental health, addictions, and crisis services for Waterloo-Wellington, available 24/7. Call 1-844-437-3247.

    2. CMHA Waterloo Wellington: The Canadian Mental Health Association offers crisis support and mental health services. Reach their crisis line at 1-844-437-3247.

    3. Kids Help Phone: Offers confidential support to young people, available 24/7. Call 1-800-668-6868 or text "CONNECT" to 686868.

    4. Good2Talk: A free support line for post-secondary students in Ontario. Call 1-866-925-5454 or text "GOOD2TALKON" to 686868.

    In an emergency, always call 911 or go to the nearest hospital.

  • Safe Families in Kitchener, Waterloo, and Guelph is part of Safe Families Canada, a community-based program that supports families facing difficulties. The initiative helps families avoid crises by providing temporary care for children through volunteer host families. This gives parents time to address challenges such as financial stress, health concerns, or housing instability.

    Key aspects of Safe Families include:

    1. Host Families: Volunteers who offer short-term, voluntary care for children while parents work to stabilize their situation.

    2. Family Coaches: These volunteers provide guidance and connect families to resources and support services to help them regain stability.

    3. Support Networks: Volunteers offer practical help, such as providing meals or assisting with transportation, to ease the burden on families.

    The goal is to provide a supportive environment to keep families together, preventing the need for more serious interventions.

    For more information, or if you're seeking assistance, you can visit [Safe Families Canada](https://safefamilies.ca).

  • 1. Hospice Waterloo Region: Provides specialized grief and bereavement support services, including counselling, support groups, and resources for those dealing with the loss of a loved one.

    2. Bereaved Families of Ontario – Midwestern Region: Offers peer-led support groups and resources for individuals experiencing grief, along with workshops and community outreach programs.

    3. The Coping Centre: A Cambridge-based service that offers a variety of coping group support groups (8-10 weeks) for adults, young adults, teenagers, children, and those who have lost a loved one by suicide.

Affordable Counselling Services

  • 1. Carizon Family and Community Services: Carizon offers sliding scale counseling based on income, making therapy more affordable. They provide support for individuals, families, and couples dealing with a wide range of issues.(https://www.carizon.ca)

    2. The Centre for Mental Health Research and Treatment (CMHRT): Located at the University of Waterloo, this center offers low-cost therapy provided by graduate students in clinical psychology, supervised by licensed professionals. Rates are based on a sliding scale.(https://uwaterloo.ca/mental-health-research/)

    3. Family Counselling Centre of Cambridge and North Dumfries: This center offers affordable counseling services with fees based on income, serving both Kitchener-Waterloo and surrounding areas. (https://www.fccnd.ca)

    4. Delton Glebe Counselling Centre: Provides affordable, faith-based counseling on a sliding scale. Their services are available to individuals, couples, and families, regardless of religious background, offering support for mental health, relationships, and life transitions. (https://glebecounselling.ca)

    5. Crossway to Life: Offers Christian-based counseling and support for individuals dealing with life challenges, mental health concerns, or spiritual growth. They focus on emotional and relational healing through a faith-based approach. (https://www.crosswaytolife.org)

  • 1. Family Counselling and Support Services Guelph-Wellington (FCSSGW): This organization provides affordable counseling services on a sliding scale, making mental health support accessible for those with financial constraints. They offer individual, couples, and family therapy. (https://familyserviceguelph.on.ca)

    2. University of Guelph - Student Wellness Services: Provides free counseling services to current University of Guelph students. They offer individual therapy, group programs, and mental health workshops. (https://wellness.uoguelph.ca)

    3. Guelph Community Health Centre (GCHC): Offers counseling and mental health support, with services available for individuals, couples, and families. They provide services on a sliding scale based on income. (https://guelphchc.ca)

    4. Hope House: Offers mental health services, including free counseling for those in financial need. Their programs support individuals experiencing mental health challenges and focus on community well-being. (https://hopehouseguelph.com)

    5. CMHA Waterloo Wellington: The Canadian Mental Health Association provides a range of free and low-cost mental health services, including counseling, crisis support, and specialized programs for different mental health concerns. (https://cmhaww.ca)

Parenting Supports

  • 1. EarlyON Child and Family Centres: These centers offer free programs for parents and caregivers with children ages 0-6, including drop-in play sessions, parenting workshops, and resources on child development. They are located throughout both Kitchener-Waterloo and Guelph.

    2. Region of Waterloo Public Health: Provides parenting classes, breastfeeding support, and home visits from public health nurses to assist parents with newborns and young children.

    3. Guelph Community Health Centre (GCHC): Offers various parenting resources, including health services, nutrition advice, and support for new parents.

    4. YMCA of Three Rivers – Waterloo Region: The YMCA offers family-focused programs, including parent-child activities, fitness, and health resources, aimed at promoting family well-being.

  • 1. Carizon Family and Community Services: Provides family counseling, mental health services, and parenting programs to support families with teenagers facing challenges such as school stress, behavioral issues, and family conflict. (https://www.carizon.ca)

    2. Family Counselling and Support Services Guelph-Wellington: Offers a range of counseling services for parents and teens, including family therapy and support groups to help address communication breakdowns and adolescent behavioral concerns. (https://familyserviceguelph.on.ca)

    3. YMCA Youth Programs: The YMCA of Three Rivers offers youth development programs that provide positive activities, mentorship, and leadership opportunities for teens, helping to build self-esteem and resilience. (https://www.ymcacambridgekw.ca)

Divorce & Single Parents Supports

  • 1. Carizon Family and Community Services: Offers counseling and support groups for individuals going through divorce or separation. They provide a safe space to share experiences and receive guidance on emotional and legal aspects of divorce. (https://www.carizon.ca)

    2. Family Counselling and Support Services Guelph-Wellington: Offers divorce support groups as well as individual counseling for people adjusting to life post-divorce, focusing on emotional well-being and practical advice. (https://familyserviceguelph.on.ca)

    3. DivorceCare: This is a nationwide program with local chapters in Kitchener, Waterloo, and Guelph. DivorceCare provides a structured support group with weekly sessions to help individuals heal from the emotional impact of divorce. (https://www.divorcecare.org)

  • Family Mediation at By Peaceful Waters

    What is family mediation?

    Family mediation is a process where a neutral third party (the mediator) helps families resolve disputes related to separation, divorce, parenting plans, and other family matters. The goal is to reach mutually agreeable solutions outside of court.

    What services does By Peaceful Waters offer for family mediation?

    By Peaceful Waters offers mediation services for a variety of family-related issues, including separation agreements, parenting plans, child and spousal support, and property division. Their mediators work with families to find peaceful, collaborative solutions tailored to their specific needs.

    Who can benefit from family mediation?

    Any family experiencing conflict related to divorce, separation, or child custody can benefit from mediation. It is particularly helpful for those who want to avoid the emotional and financial strain of going to court.

    Is family mediation legally binding?

    Mediation agreements reached through By Peaceful Waters are not automatically legally binding but can be formalized into legal agreements by a lawyer. Many families choose this path to ensure their agreements are enforceable.

    How much does family mediation cost?

    By Peaceful Waters offers family mediation on a sliding scale based on the parties' financial situation. The fees vary depending on the complexity of the issues being mediated, and they strive to make their services as accessible as possible.

    How long does the mediation process take?

    The length of mediation depends on the complexity of the issues and the willingness of both parties to work towards a resolution. Some mediations may be resolved in a few sessions, while others may take longer.

    What are the benefits of choosing family mediation over court proceedings?

    Family mediation is often quicker, less expensive, and less adversarial than court proceedings. It allows families to retain control over the outcome and encourages cooperative decision-making, which can be beneficial for long-term co-parenting relationships.

    How do I get started with family mediation at By Peaceful Waters?

    You can contact By Peaceful Waters directly to book an initial consultation. During this session, they will assess your situation and explain the mediation process in detail.

    For more information, visit the [By Peaceful Waters website](https://bypeacefulwaters.ca).

  • 1. EarlyON Child and Family Centres: These centers offer free programs for parents and caregivers with children ages 0-6, including drop-in play sessions, parenting workshops, and resources on child development. They are located throughout both Kitchener-Waterloo and Guelph. (https://www.earlyyearsinfo.ca)

    2. Region of Waterloo Public Health: Provides parenting classes, breastfeeding support, and home visits from public health nurses to assist parents with newborns and young children. (https://www.regionofwaterloo.ca)

    3. Guelph Community Health Centre (GCHC): Offers various parenting resources, including health services, nutrition advice, and support for new parents. (https://guelphchc.ca)

    4. YMCA of Three Rivers – Waterloo Region: The YMCA offers family-focused programs, including parent-child activities, fitness, and health resources, aimed at promoting family well-being. (https://www.ymcacambridgekw.ca)

Support for Women

  • 1. Region of Waterloo Public Health: Offers prenatal and postpartum programs, breastfeeding support, and home visits by public health nurses. These services provide guidance on maternal health, infant care, and parenting. (https://www.regionofwaterloo.ca)

    2. EarlyON Child and Family Centres: Located throughout Kitchener-Waterloo and Guelph, EarlyON Centres provide free drop-in programs for parents and caregivers of children aged 0-6. They offer resources on parenting, child development, and support for new mothers. (https://www.earlyyearsinfo.ca)

    3. Postpartum Mood Disorder Support (PMD) - Carizon Family and Community Services: Carizon offers support for mothers experiencing postpartum depression or anxiety, including individual counseling and group therapy. (https://www.carizon.ca)

    4. Women's Health Concerns Clinic at St. Joseph’s Healthcare Hamilton: Serves the broader region, including Kitchener-Waterloo and Guelph, and provides specialized care for pregnant and postpartum women experiencing mental health challenges. (https://www.stjoes.ca)

    5. La Leche League Canada: Offers breastfeeding support and resources through local groups in Kitchener-Waterloo and Guelph. They provide free virtual and in-person meetings for mothers seeking assistance with breastfeeding. (https://www.lllc.ca)

  • Guelph Community Health Centre (GCHC): Provides programs for expectant and new mothers, including prenatal education, breastfeeding support, and nutrition counseling. (https://guelphchc.ca)

  • 1. Women’s Crisis Services of Waterloo Region: This organization offers emergency shelter, counseling, and safety planning for women and children experiencing domestic violence. They operate two shelters: Anselma House in Kitchener and Haven House in Cambridge. They also provide outreach services and support groups. (https://wcswr.org)

    2. Guelph-Wellington Women in Crisis (GWWIC): Provides emergency shelter, a 24-hour crisis line, counseling, and legal advocacy for women and children experiencing violence and abuse. They also run support groups for survivors of domestic violence. (https://gwwomenincrisis.org)

    3. SASC (Sexual Assault Support Centre) of Waterloo Region: Offers free and confidential support services for survivors of sexual violence. Services include a 24-hour support line, individual and group counseling, and advocacy for survivors. (https://www.sascwr.org)

    4. ARCH Guelph: While primarily focused on HIV/AIDS, ARCH also provides support services for survivors of sexual and domestic violence, including counseling and advocacy for women in the Guelph area. (https://archguelph.ca)

    5. Kitchener-Waterloo Multicultural Centre: Offers support for immigrant and refugee women who are victims of violence. They provide counseling, legal support, and connections to community resources. (https://kwmulticultural.ca)

  • 1. Women’s Crisis Services of Waterloo Region: Provides emotional support and counseling for women dealing with domestic violence, trauma, or mental health challenges. They offer individual therapy and group support sessions for women in crisis.

    2. Guelph-Wellington Women in Crisis (GWWIC): In addition to providing safety and advocacy for women experiencing violence, GWWIC offers counseling and mental health support for women coping with trauma, anxiety, and depression related to abuse.

    3. Carizon Family and Community Services: Offers mental health services including counseling for women dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, and life transitions. Their services are available on a sliding scale, making them more accessible to women from all financial backgrounds.

    4. CMHA Waterloo Wellington: The Canadian Mental Health Association provides a variety of mental health programs tailored to women, including counseling, group therapy, and support for women facing postpartum depression or anxiety.

    5. Hope House Guelph: Offers free mental health and wellness services, including counseling and support groups, with a focus on women dealing with life challenges or emotional distress.

Support for Men

  • 1. Dad Central Ontario: This organization offers resources and programs designed specifically for fathers. They provide information on parenting, relationship-building with children, and support for dads facing challenges. (https://dadcentral.ca)

    2. Family and Children’s Services of the Waterloo Region: They provide counseling and support services for fathers, including programs to help with parenting, conflict resolution, and family stability. These services are available to both partnered and single fathers. (https://www.facswaterloo.org)

    3. Carizon Family and Community Services: Carizon offers a variety of programs, including parenting classes, counseling, and support groups, which can help fathers improve their parenting skills and cope with family stress. (https://www.carizon.ca)

    4. YMCA of Three Rivers – Waterloo Region: The YMCA offers programs for fathers, including parenting workshops, fitness programs, and activities that fathers can do with their children to help foster strong family relationships. (https://www.ymcacambridgekw.ca)

    5. The Guelph Community Health Centre (GCHC): GCHC offers support programs for single and partnered fathers, including parenting support, health services, and mental health resources. (https://guelphchc.ca)

    6. EarlyON Child and Family Centres: These centers offer free programs for fathers and their children, as well as parenting resources and support groups. (https://www.earlyyearsinfo.ca)

  • The Black Daddies Club is a community-based organization in Toronto, founded in 2007, that aims to support and uplift Black fathers. The club focuses on addressing issues faced by Black men and fathers, including the challenges of parenting, societal stereotypes, and the lack of mental health resources. Through community conversations, events, and social support initiatives, the Black Daddies Club creates spaces for Black fathers to share their experiences, support one another, and strengthen their relationships with their children.

    Their mission includes:

    1. Building Community: They work to create a supportive environment where Black fathers can connect and share their experiences without judgment.

    2. Challenging Stereotypes: The club actively works to combat the negative stereotypes about Black fathers in society.

    3. Advocacy and Awareness: They aim to raise awareness of the unique challenges Black fathers face and advocate for better representation and support systems in broader society.

    While primarily based in Toronto, the Black Daddies Club serves as a model of empowerment and community-building that can resonate with fathers in other regions as well.

    For more information, visit the Black Daddies Club website: http://blackdaddiesclub.com.

  • 1. SASC (Sexual Assault Support Centre) of Waterloo Region: While primarily focused on women, SASC also provides services for male survivors of sexual violence, including counselling, a 24-hour crisis line, and support groups for men. (https://www.sascwr.org)

    2. Male Survivors of Sexual Abuse - Ontario: This provincial organization offers a 24-hour, toll-free helpline for male survivors of sexual violence. They provide referrals to local counseling services and support groups, including in Kitchener-Waterloo and Guelph. (https://www.malesurvivor.org)

    3. Family Counselling and Support Services Guelph-Wellington: Provides counseling services for men who are victims of domestic violence or abuse. They offer affordable, confidential support to help men work through trauma and rebuild their lives. (https://familyserviceguelph.on.ca)

    4. Victim Services of Waterloo Region and Guelph-Wellington: This organization provides immediate emotional and practical support to victims of violence, including men. They offer crisis intervention, safety planning, and referrals to longer-term support services. (https://www.vswr.ca) & (https://www.vswguelph.on.ca)

  • 1. Carizon Family and Community Services: Offers individual counseling and group therapy, including specialized programs for men dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, or life transitions. (https://www.carizon.ca)

    2. Men's Mental Health Program - Canadian Mental Health Association Waterloo Wellington (CMHA WW): Offers mental health support, including counseling and crisis intervention, specifically for men facing challenges like depression, anxiety, and anger management. (https://cmhaww.ca)

    3. Dad Central Ontario: While primarily focused on fatherhood support, this organization provides mental health resources, workshops, and support groups for men navigating the pressures of parenting and family life. (https://dadcentral.ca)

    4. Family Counselling and Support Services Guelph-Wellington: Offers individual therapy and support groups for men dealing with mental health issues, relationship problems, or personal stressors. (https://familyserviceguelph.on.ca)

    5. Men’s Sheds Groups: A social organization aimed at improving men’s well-being through activities, peer support, and community involvement. Men’s Sheds provide a space for men to connect, socialize, and engage in meaningful projects to combat isolation and improve mental health. (https://mensshedscanada.ca)

Other Supports

  • 1. Guelph Community Health Centre (GCHC): Provides culturally sensitive mental health services for newcomers, including counseling, peer support groups, and connections to community resources for managing stress, anxiety, and other mental health concerns. (https://guelphchc.ca)

    2. Carizon Family and Community Services: Offers mental health support tailored to newcomers, including individual and family counseling, support for trauma survivors, and resources for overcoming cultural barriers to mental wellness. (https://www.carizon.ca)

    3. The Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) Waterloo Wellington: Provides mental health services to immigrants and refugees, including counseling, crisis intervention, and language support to ensure accessible mental health care.(https://cmhaww.ca)

    4. Focus on Ethnic Women (FEW): An organization dedicated to supporting immigrant and visible minority women in Kitchener-Waterloo. They offer a range of programs, including counseling, peer support, and mental health resources tailored to the unique challenges faced by newcomer women. (https://www.few.on.ca)

    5. Kitchener Downtown Community Health Centre (KDCHC): Offers comprehensive health services, including mental health support for newcomers. They provide counseling, social work services, and access to health and wellness programs for immigrants and refugees. (https://kdchc.org)

    6. Reception House Waterloo Region: Provides mental health support for refugees and newcomers, including trauma counseling, mental health assessments, and access to community health services. (https://receptionhouse.ca)

    7. Fem’aide: A helpline that offers support to Francophone women in Ontario, including those in Kitchener-Waterloo and Guelph, who are victims of violence or experiencing mental health challenges. It provides confidential, culturally sensitive support in French. (https://femaide.ca)

  • 1. Legal Aid Ontario (LAO): Provides legal services to low-income individuals. They assist with issues such as family law, criminal defense, immigration, and refugee claims. Legal Aid Ontario can connect you with a lawyer or offer advice through their duty counsel services.

    - [Legal Aid Ontario](https://www.legalaid.on.ca)

    2. Waterloo Region Community Legal Services: Offers free legal services to low-income residents of Kitchener-Waterloo. They provide assistance with housing issues, social assistance, employment law, and more.

    - [Waterloo Region Community Legal Services](https://www.wrcls.ca)

    3. Guelph-Wellington Legal Clinic: Provides free legal services to low-income individuals in Guelph and Wellington County. They offer help with housing, employment law, social benefits, and more.

    - [Guelph-Wellington Legal Clinic](http://www.gwlegalclinic.ca)

    4. Family Law Information Centres (FLIC): Located in courthouses, FLICs provide information on family law issues, including custody, access, and child support. They offer free consultations and can guide you through the legal process.

    - [Family Law Information Centres](https://www.attorneygeneral.jus.gov.on.ca/english/family/infoctr.php)

    5. Pro Bono Ontario: Provides free legal help to those who cannot afford a lawyer. They offer telephone advice services and legal clinics to assist with civil matters such as employment, housing, and debt issues.

    - [Pro Bono Ontario](https://www.probonoontario.org)

    6. Community Legal Education Ontario (CLEO): CLEO provides clear and understandable legal information for people in Ontario. While not a direct legal service provider, they offer resources and guidance on a wide range of legal issues.

    - [CLEO](https://www.cleo.on.ca)

  • FAQ: Mood Disorders Association of Ontario (MDAO)

    What is the Mood Disorders Association of Ontario (MDAO)?

    The Mood Disorders Association of Ontario (MDAO) is a non-profit organization that provides free support programs and resources for individuals living with mood disorders such as depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder, as well as for their families.

    What services does MDAO offer?

    MDAO offers a variety of free services, including:

    - Peer support groups for individuals and families affected by mood disorders.

    - Individual counseling and support programs.

    - Educational workshops and resources on managing mood disorders.

    - Specialized programs for youth, seniors, and caregivers.

    Is MDAO only for people with diagnosed mood disorders?

    No, MDAO’s services are available to anyone who feels they may be struggling with mood-related issues, whether they have a formal diagnosis or not. It also provides support for caregivers and family members of those affected.

    Do I need a referral to access services at MDAO?

    No referral is needed. You can contact MDAO directly to inquire about their programs and services.

    How can I access MDAO's services?

    You can access their services online, through virtual programs, or in person. Visit their website or call them to find a support group or service that suits your needs.

    Does MDAO provide services outside of Ontario?

    MDAO primarily serves individuals in Ontario, but some of their resources and virtual programs may be accessible to people in other regions as well.

    For more information, visit [Mood Disorders Association of Ontario](https://www.mooddisorders.ca).