Up-to-date and reliable information about COVID-19:

• City of Toronto:  www.toronto.ca/community-people/health-wellness-care/diseases-medications-vaccines/coronavirus/

• Government of Canada: www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/2019-novel-coronavirus-infection.html

• Government of Ontario: https://covid-19.ontario.ca/

• Toronto Assessment Centres: Toronto Region COVID-19 Assessment Centres – City of Toronto

• World Health Organization:  www.who.int/health-topics/coronavirus

Distress Centres of Greater Toronto:  Phone 416-408-4357, text 45645 or chat online

Gerstein Center Crisis Line:  416-929-5200

Seniors:   Crisis Outreach Services for Seniors: 416-217-2077

Youth:             Kids Help Phone: 1-800-668-6868

     Youthdale Crisis Service: 416-363-9990

Emergency or immediate danger: Phone 911 or go to your nearest hospital emergency department

Shelter:

Shelter Central Intake: 416-338-4766 or 1-877-338-3398 (No in-person intake, please call)

Safety:

Assaulted Women’s Helpline: 416-863-0511 or 1-866-863-0511; www.awhl.org

Provides support, safety planning, information and referral to services throughout Ontario

Advance Care Planning differs from province to province/territory to territory, please check with the guidelines specific to your province/territory.

Advanced Care Planning: preparing for when you are not able to make decisions on your own by confirming your substitute decision maker(s); communicating your wishes, values, and beliefs about care; and NOT about decisions.  

Dying with Dignity Canada (https://www.dyingwithdignity.ca/education)

• Educational information and resources (webinars, patient rights booklet, Advanced Care Planning kits, etc.)

Hospice Palliative Care Ontario (https://www.hpco.ca/acp/)

• Videos on Advanced Care Planning and health care consent

Speak Up Canada (https://www.advancecareplanning.ca/health-care-professionals/)

• Website on advanced care planning, including tools and resources for families and individuals, and health care professionals

Speak Up Ontario (https://www.speakupontario.ca/)

• Covid-related resources and tools on Advanced Care Planning for individuals and families, clinicians, and non-health care providers
• Advanced Care Planning information for patients: HERE
• Advanced Care Planning information for substitute decision makers: HERE

COVID-19 Youth Mental Health Resource Hub: 

jack.org/Resources/COVID-19-Youth-Mental-Health-Resource-Hub?lang=en-ca

Crisis Text Line – support for young people in crisis: crisistextline.ca | Text HOME to 686868

Etobicoke Children’s Centre - phone-in counselling services for children, youth (age 24 and under), and families using strength-based approach.

• Phone: 647-272-8482   Hours: 8:30am - 4:30pm    
• Website

How to Cope with Social Distancing During COVID-19

kidshelpphone.ca/get-info/how-to-cope-with-social-distancing-during-covid-19 

Kids Coping and Colouring Books:

alliedhealth.lsuhsc.edu/clinics/docs/CarolineConquersherCoronoaFears31820.pdf

LGBTQ YouthLine – peer support for queer, trans, two-spirit youth (29 years and under) in Ontario: Text 647-694-4275 | Chat online at youthline.ca

Mental Health T.O. - http://www.mentalhealthto.ca/ - 1-866-585-MHTO (6486)

•  Mental Health T.O. is the central intake point for youth mental health services (this includes crisis services, ongoing mental health counselling, support groups, and family supports)
• Anyone under the age of 18 looking for mental health services or anyone who wants to support someone under the age of 18 can access this service
• Hours: Monday to Friday, 9am - 7pm

Mood Disorders (anxiety and depression) - Centre for Effective Practice

• Guide for primary care providers on how to support youth and young adults with anxiety and depression during the pandemic

https://cep.health/clinical-products/virtual-care-for-youth-and-young-adult-mood-disorders/

Stella’s Place - stellasplace.ca/ - 416-461-2345  

A mental health agency for young adults (16-29). They usually offer ongoing counselling and groups, as well as walk-in counselling. They are now offering drop-in phone counselling on Tuesdays & Thursdays between 3:00 and 6:00pm.

They also have an app called BeanBagChat that offers text-based peer support from 12:00 – 9:00pm Monday – Thursday; 4:00 – 9:00 on Friday; and 4:00 – 9:00 on Sunday. 

The Oyster and The Butterfly - Coronavirus and Me

• Book PDF: edu.princeedwardisland.ca/cardigan/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Book-Oyster-Butterfly.pdf
• Youtube video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IBHba-EBoM8

Tips and Resources to Help Support Student Mental Health during the COVID-19 Pandemic

smho-smso.ca/covid-19/ 

What’s Up Walk-in Clinics - www.whatsupwalkin.ca/ 

What’s Up Walk‑In® counselling sessions are available by phone & video.

New Hours: Monday – Friday, 9AM – 7PM

To access, call Mental Health T.O. at 1-866-585-MHTO (6486) to be connected to a counsellor.

Where to Start - Free Webinars for Parents/Caregivers during COVID-19

https://wheretostart.ca/free-webinars-for-parents-caregivers/

Brains On! Coronavirus Episodes and Resources (https://www.brainson.org/page/coronavirus)

• 30 minute podcasts with information for children and families to learn more about COVID-19 (i.e. importance of social distancing and how germs spread, etc.)

COVID-19 Learning Hub (https://www.aboutkidshealth.ca/COVID-19)

• Resources on COVID-19 and how to cope, and support children’s mental health and general well-being.

COVID-19 School Screening: (https://covid-19.ontario.ca/school-screening/)

COVID with Kids: (https://www.covidwithkids.org/)

• Website with tools, strategies and resources to learn how to cope with kids at home during the pandemic

List of benefits available during COVID-19  → HERE

• Canada Recovery Benefit: Apply HERE

• Includes information on who can apply and how to apply

• City of Toronto – Income Support:

https://www.toronto.ca/home/covid-19/covid-19-financial-social-support-for-people/covid-19-income-support/

• COVID-19 Benefits and Services HERE

• Includes information on the different available recovery and emergency benefits and how to apply.

• COVID-19: Updates on Law and Benefits from CLEO: https://stepstojustice.ca/covid-19 

• Disability Tax Credit -  COVID-19 One-time benefit for persons with disabilities

Deadline extended to Dec 31st, 2020

Check out the information HERE

News Article Here

• Government of Canada: www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/corporate/notices/coronavirus.html

• Includes information about: EI Sickness Benefits, Student Loans,  all other national benefits you may be eligible for.

• Income Tax Clinics

The Neighbourhood Group and Partners

Due to COVID-19, our Tax Clinic will be by appointment only from March 1 - April 8th

Clients who are eligible will be asked to bring their tax documents at their appointed time for us to copy. With copies of their documents we are able to complete their tax return and submit to Canada Revenue Agency. A copy of the tax return will be mailed to the client with confirmation of submission.

Contact:

Nina Safary - 3036 Danforth Avenue

T: 416.691.7407 ext. 236

E: ninasafary@tngcs.org

Briana Hogg

349 Ontario Street

T: 416.925.4363 ext. 117

E: briana.hogg@tngcs.org

West Neighbourhood House (virtual/over the phone)

• Income tax filing for 2020 booking available starting Tuesday, February 23, 2021 for beginning of March.
• To book an appointment call 416-848-7980, leave a brief message with contact number, call will be returned within 48 hours.

Woodgreen Tax Service (virtual/over the phone)

• Please call as soon as you have your documents ready, because demand may be higher than normal this year.
• Contact the tax service line 416-645-6000 ext. 1187 or email taxclinic@woodgreen.org
• Clients will be placed on a call-back list to be served as soon as possible by remote tax volunteers.
• Any staff who provide in-person support to clients who are unable to access our tax services by phone are encouraged to contact Woodgreen.  We can provide you with instructions on how you can submit your client's documents to us electronically.

Woodgreen Do-It-Yourself (DIY) Tax Helpline (virtual/over the phone) available starting on March 2nd, 2021

• Clients learn how to complete your own tax return on TurboTax software with phone support from knowledgeable volunteers
• Clients must have their own internet-connected device to complete their tax return, with phone and help from a tax coach volunteer.  
• Contact the DIY Tax Helpline at 416-645-6000 ext. 2999 or email taxclinic@woodgreen.org

• Ontario’s Emergency Assistance program (through Ontario Works): Ontario.ca/community

• The Government of Canada has produced a benefit finder tool called find financial help during COVID-19:  https://covid-benefits.alpha.canada.ca/en/start

• ONTARIO COVID-19 Child Benefit (DEADLINE May 17th)

• Did you apply for “Support for Learners?” - you will get an automatic payment
• If you DID NOT apply to “Support for Learners” Apply →  HERE

Print out the word document →  HERE

One-time payment PER CHILD to help with costs of school during 2020-2021

• $400 for each child up to grade 12.
•  $500 for each child or youth up to 21 with special needs.

Payment options: E-transfer or  Direct deposit in about 2 weeks

*OW and ODSP will not count this money as income

Affordable Meal Guide

• Check it out here → HERE

Food Assets Map: HERE

• Created by Food Security Team at Agincourt Community Service
• Up to date information on foodbanks, free/low cost meals, delivery services, and supermarkets

Food banks

211

• The best place for up-to-date information on open food programs is 211toronto.ca. The food listings are updated daily as information is received from providers. You can call 211 directly for information.

Daily Bread Food Bank: 416-203-0050; www.dailybread.ca

Mobile Food Bank (Red Cross) (not taking new referrals): 416-236-3180; www.redcross.ca/in-your-community/ontario/nutrition-and-transportation/mobile-food-bank/toronto-region-branch-mobile-food-bank

Scarborough Southwest Food Security Initiative (Offering support to people living in the  Scarborough Southwest area): www.scarboroughfoodsecurityinitiative.com

• For help, email ScarbCares@gmail.com or call 647-846-0300

Free Food and delivery

Afri-Can Food Basket ( https://blackfoodtoronto.com/ ) (currently adding to waitlist)

• Individuals and families within the African, Caribbean, Black community in Toronto who need help getting food because of COVID
• Complete the form → HERE

City of Toronto & Red Cross (Ended June 30th)

(www.toronto.ca/home/covid-19/covid-19-financial-social-support-for-people/covid-19-seniors-vulnerable-people/)

• With help from United Way of Greater Toronto, food hamper delivery is available for qualifying seniors and others that are in self-isolation who do not have other access to food and are currently not receiving help from another community food program.
• Call 1-833-204-9952 for more information.
• Once accepted, you will be contacted within 1 business day to confirm and arrange for grocery delivery

Downtown East Toronto Meal Delivery Program (Capacity reached. Support only for people who are COVID positive and isolating)

• Cooked meal delivery Monday to Friday and wellness checks
• For individuals quarantined due to COVID-19 or have lots of health issues and need food
• Unable to accommodate diet restrictions
• Area: south of Bloor St. to Front St. and east of Bay St. to Don Valley Parkway.
• Ended May 31, 2021
• Have questions? Call: (416) 814 3461 ext: 307 or email Jennifer at JFIELD@PROGRESSPLACE.ORG
• For more information about program: HERE

EMERGENCY FOOD Delivery

Who can get this food delivery?

• People who live within the boundaries of Bloor (north), the Lake (south), Spadina (east) and Roncesvalles (west) (see map on flyer for visual);
• People who are self-isolating due to a positive COVID-19 test or those who are awaiting test results; and
• People who are experiencing food insecurity due to low income
• If you answered yes to all of the above:

Call: 647 - 696 - 6829 OR

Email: covid19fooddelivery@gmail.com

Feed It Forward - Canada’s First “Pay What You Can” Grocery Store since June 2018

• Toronto based organization helping to feed Canadians
• Grocery Store, Cafe and Bakery at: 2770 Dundas St. West, Unit A
• 7 Days a week 11am - 6pm
• https://feeditforward.ca/

The Food Rx program - currently full

• Website: https://foodshare.net/program/foodrx/

Share the Goods (https://www.sharethegoods.ca/) - currently not accepting applications

• If you need help with the cost of groceries, or want to help out others in need, you can sign up for this community-based initiative. Support one time per household.

Toronto Cares Support (on hold) (https://toronto-cares.ca/grocery-boxes)

• Sign-up closes on Tuesdays at 3pm for deliveries on Saturday
• Pay-what you-can grocery boxes, starting from $10 ($50+ value), depending on income level.
• Fill form → HERE   Or email: helping.toronto.intake@gmail.com
• Occasionally can provide a ONE-TIME free emergency box
• Delivery for Toronto, York Region, Scarborough and Etobicoke

The People’s Pantry (Grocery program will re-start later. Cooked meals can still be requested)  https://www.thepeoplespantryto.com/

• Grassroots initiative providing home-cooked meals or grocery bundles to families and individuals in the GTA who are struggling financially due to COVID
• Meals or groceries delivered 100% free of charge
• To get help go → HERE
• Resource list can be found here →  https://bit.ly/3lgB3yl

The 519 (partnership with Second Harvest) - FREE Frozen Meal Service

(SIGN UP TODAY!)

• Fill out this form → HERE 
• Everyone is welcome to sign up to pick-up 3 frozen Meals once a week (Mondays, Tuesdays or Wednesdays)
• If there is more than one adult in the home, each adult needs to sign up and pick up their meal themselves
• All meals are fully cooked before freezing and have 1 protein, 1 starch and 1 vegetable
• If someone can’t heat up food, they will get soups, salads, shakes, etc.
• If someone has small children and lives around Church-Wellesley, please email: Meals@The519.org 

Uplift Kitchen (Taking a break in September) (https://www.upliftkitchen.ca/).

• If you identify as Black or Indigenous, you can visit Uplift Kitchen to receive cooked meals.
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/upliftkitchento/?hl=en
• Fill out the form → https://linktr.ee/upliftkitchento
• Email: upliftkitchento@gmail.com 

Vegetarian Food Bank http://tvfb.ca/ -  647-878-6516

• Delivers once per month to any area.
• You need to be vegetarian or vegan
• Email: TOvegfoodbank@gmail.com 

Drop - ins

Downtown East Food Security Services

• List of food security services available in the downtown East area → HERE

Drop-In Spaces for Dine-in and Takeaway Meals

• List of drop-in spaces offering dine-in or takeaway meals →  Here
• Updated often

Free Grocery Delivery

Friendly Neighbour Hotline: (http://uhnopenlab.ca/project/hotline/) - 1-855-581-9580

• Monday to Friday between 9am-5pm, toll-free and available in 180+ languages
• Available to seniors in low-income housing in Toronto
• Free pick-up and delivery service for groceries and household items, asking to keep each order to 8 items or less

Good Neighbour Project (www.goodneighbourproject.com/) – 647-873-2230

• Call between 8am-8pm or email: info@goodneighbourproject.com
• Network of volunteers offering to help those in need (vulnerable populations, health care workers) with delivery of food/supplies.
• Not currently accepting new clients (August 2021), may reopen in Fall 2021

Pay for grocery/food and delivery

Many grocery stores do home delivery, you can use the services below:

• Grocery Gateway (1-877-447-8778; www.grocerygateway.com)
• Instacart (www.instacart.ca)
• CarLoad (www.carload.ca)

Meals on Wheels: www.mealsonwheels.ca

** Many supermarkets are offering specific shopping hours for vulnerable populations. Call your local store to find out more.

Canadian Bankers Association (https://cba.ca/fast-facts-on-bank-measures-in-response-to-the-covid-19-pandemic)

• Fast facts on bank measures in response to COVID-19 pandemic

Canadian Network of the Health and Housing of People Experiencing Homelessness

(http://cnh3.ca/resources/)

• COVID-related information and resources for the homelessness sector

Co-operative Housing Federation of Canada (https://chfcanada.coop/housing-co-ops-and-covid-19/)

• Covid-19 updates related to Housing Co-ops.

Social Planning Toronto (https://www.socialplanningtoronto.org/covid_renters)

• Covid-related housing support for tenants, homeowners, and healthcare workers

Through Ruff Times  https://www.throughrufftimes.org/

• Temporary Pet care options. Minimum 5 days to maximum 90 day stay  
• Email info@throughrufftimes.org  or

complete the intake form →  https://www.throughrufftimes.org/pet-intake

Toronto Community Housing (https://www.torontohousing.ca/residents/community-services/Pages/Novel-Coronavirus-COVID-19-information.aspx)

• Covid-19 related updates for Toronto Community Housing tenants

Food Security:

2-SPIRITED PEOPLE OF THE FIRST NATIONS

Offering a Community Support Food Program; *priority for existing members*

Contact to arrange a drop off: director@2spirits.org or 437-249-6837

NATIVE CANADIAN CENTRE OF TORONTO - https://ncct.on.ca/

Serving Lunches To Go at the Front Door and Hampers

11am-1pm, Monday to Friday until further notice.

Location: 16 Spadina Rd. Toronto, M5R 2S7

NATIVE CHILD AND FAMILY SERVICES OF TORONTO - https://nativechild.org/

Supplying Food Hampers & Providing Youth Take Away Meals

Monday to Friday 9am – 5pm

Saturdays 11am – 5pm

Location: 30 College Street, Toronto

TORONTO COUNCIL FIRE AND NATIVE CULTURAL CENTRE - https://www.councilfire.ca/

Daily Meals To Go and Food Supports​; Providing 3 take-away meals per day

Location: 439 Dundas Street East, Toronto, M5A 2B1

Virtual Programming via Zoom (must register to join)

Uplift Kitchen (starting again in January) (https://www.upliftkitchen.ca/).

• If you identify as Black or Indigenous, you can visit Uplift Kitchen to receive cooked meals.
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/upliftkitchento/?hl=en
• Fill out the form → https://linktr.ee/upliftkitchento

Child and Youth Care:

NATIVE CHILD AND FAMILY SERVICES OF TORONTO

24-Hour Crisis Support for youth & children under 18: (416) 969-8510

Virtual Early Years and Youth Programming: Phone: 416-969-8510 x 3141

Or email: Wilson@nativechild.org; jwilson@nativechild.org; or smccarthy@nativechild.org

Crisis Support:

FIRST NATIONS & INUIT HOPE FOR WELLNESS Help Line

Service languages: Ojibway, Cree, Inuktut, English, French

Provides 24/7 culturally grounded assessment, referrals, support in times of crisis, and suicide intervention.

Contact: 1-855-242-3310

MMIW Crisis Line

Service languages: English, French

24/7 support to family, friends and community members who are being impacted by the loss of a missing or murdered Indigenous woman, girl or Two-spirit person.

Contact: 1-844-413-6649

NATIVE WOMEN'S ASSOCIATION OF CANADA

Team of in-house Elders to support during this time of crisis, offering support and building resiliency. They are available Monday–Friday, from 9–11 a.m. EST and 1–3 p.m. EST.

Contact: Elder Roberta Oshkawbewisens, Toll Free: 888-664-7808

Nishnawbe Aski Mental Health and Addictions Support Access Program

https://nanhope.ca/

 24/7 toll-free access to confidential crisis services

Access to clinical and mental health counselling, as well as mental health and addictions service navigation

Contact: 1-844-626-4673

TALK 4 HEALING

Service languages: Ojibway, Oji-Cree, Cree, English, French

24/7 culturally sensitive counselling, advice and support to Indigenous women.

Contact: 1-855-554-4325

Online service at www.talk4healing.com 

Thundership Partnership Foundation

https://thunderbirdpf.org/

COVID-19 General Support Hotline:

“CALL AUNTY”: INDIGENOUS COVID PATHWAYS LINE

GTA only

Hours: 4:00 – 9:00pm Daily

Contact: 437-703-8703

ACORN Canada

• Internet For All Campaign by ACORN Canada to bridge the digital divide
• To sign the petition go → HERE 

Connect for Success - Rogers Communications expands Connected for SuccessTM program, low-cost and reliable high-speed Internet

• Rogers offering 4 low-cost internet options:

• Basic: 25 Speed - $9.99, 50 Speed - $14.99
• For streaming: 75 Speed -  $24.99, Highest Speed  - $34.99

• Rogers Communications announced it is expanding eligibility for its Connected for Success™ program to help bridge the digital divide for more Ontarians. The Canadian first of its kind reliable, high-speed, low-cost Internet program is now expanding to new qualifying customers receiving income support through Ontario Works, the Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP), and for senior Ontarians receiving the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS).
• Eligible customers can apply through the Connected for Success website and they must provide verification that they are receiving government financial assistance under one of the five qualifying programs.
• To follow-up: 1-866-689-0758
• See below news releases for more information:

 News Release (English)

News Release (French)

TELUS - Mobility for Good (low-income seniors)

• $25 per month plus taxes for unlimited Canada wide talk and text and 3GB of high-speed data per month
• Must be getting the Guaranteed income Supplement
• Need to show your Old Age Security statement
• For more details  on how to apply go here  → https://www.telus.com/en/about/seniors/application

INTERNET HOT SPOTS

Free Internet Hotspots In Public Spaces

●          BELL: Indigo, McDonald’s, Tim Horton’s – can use even if they are closed

●           TELUS: Toronto Coach Terminal, 610 Bay Street

Free Shaw Go Wifi ( https://www.shaw.ca/internet/wifi )

• Download the Shaw Go Wifi Finder App on your device
• For Apple devices download the App → HERE
• For Android devices download the App → HERE
• On your device look for Shaw Go network and connect free without a login or Shaw ID
• One Hotspot: Dundas & Victoria Street (northwest corner)

Wireless Toronto Non-Profit – Free Internet Hotspot Project

●          You need an email address

●          Go to a Wireless Toronto location - see map

●          Use your device to connect to the network called wirelesstoronto

●          You will be directed to a login page – click on Create Free Account

●          More info on how to connect: http://www.wirelesstoronto.ca/brochure.pdf

LEGAL ISSUE

RESOURCE

Any

The Lawyer Referral Service of the Law Society of Ontario

·         anyone (income is not tested) can request online at https://lsrs.lso.ca/lsrs/ for a free 30 minute consult with a lawyer or paralegal on a wide range of legal issues.

Criminal (accused)

Legal Aid Ontario Advice Lawyer or Duty Counsel

·         at Criminal Courthouses (College Park, Old City Hall)

Legal Aid Ontario’s Client Service Centre

·         at 1-800-668-8258 (http://www.legalaid.on.ca/en/getting/callus.asp) to get summary advice or apply for a legal aid certificate

Employment

Community Legal Clinics

·         search by postal code here, call to do intake: https://www.legalaid.on.ca/en/contact/contact.asp?type=cl

Workers Action Centre

·         Workers’ Rights Info Line at 416-531-0778 to get information about rights and help with strategies

The Pro Bono Ontario Hotline

·         1-855-255-7256 for up to 30 minutes of free legal advice and assistance (https://www.probonoontario.org/hotline/)

Eviction

Community Legal Clinics

·         search by postal code here: https://www.legalaid.on.ca/en/contact/contact.asp?type=cl

Tenant Duty Counsel

·         available on walk-in basis at the Landlord and Tenant Board locations https://www.acto.ca/our-work/tenant-duty-counsel/

Tenant Hotline

·         operated by the Federation of Metro Tenants’ Associations provides free counselling to tenants: 416-921-9494 https://torontotenants.org/services/hotline

Family (custody, access, support)

Legal Aid Ontario Advice Lawyer or Duty Counsel

·         available on walk-in basis at Family Law Courthouses (393 University, 311 Jarvis, 47 Sheppard Ave. East)

Legal Aid Ontario’s Client Service Centre

·         at 1-800-668-8258 (http://www.legalaid.on.ca/en/getting/callus.asp) to get summary advice or apply for a legal aid certificate

Family (personal safety)

Legal Aid Ontario Advice Lawyer or Duty Counsel

·         available on walk-in basis at Family Law Courthouses (393 University, 311 Jarvis, 47 Sheppard Ave. East)

Barbara Schlifer Commemorative Clinic

·         for victims of intimate partner abuse, call 416-323-9149 ext. 234 or online at: http://schliferclinic.com/how-we-can-help/legal-services/

Assaulted Women’s Hotline

·         24-hour crisis counselling and referral service: 1-866-863-0511 http://www.awhl.org/about-us

Immigration

Community Legal Clinics

·         search by postal code here, call to do intake: https://www.legalaid.on.ca/en/contact/contact.asp?type=cl

Income Security (OW, ODSP, CPP-D)

Community Legal Clinics

·         search by postal code here, call to do intake: https://www.legalaid.on.ca/en/contact/contact.asp?type=cl

Personal Injury

The Pro Bono Ontario Hotline

·         1-855-255-7256 for up to 30 minutes of free legal advice and assistance (https://www.probonoontario.org/hotline/)

Refugee

Legal Aid Ontario’s Client Service Centre

·         at 1-800-668-8258 (http://www.legalaid.on.ca/en/getting/callus.asp) to get summary advice or apply for a legal aid certificate and get a referral to the Refugee Law Office

Tenant Rights

The Pro Bono Ontario Hotline

·         1-855-255-7256 for up to 30 minutes of free legal advice and assistance (https://www.probonoontario.org/hotline/)

Tenant Hotline

·         operated by the Federation of Metro Tenants’ Associations provides free counselling to tenants: 416-921-9494 https://torontotenants.org/services/hotline

Tenant Duty Counsel

·         available on walk-in basis at the Landlord and Tenant Board locations https://www.acto.ca/our-work/tenant-duty-counsel/

Community Legal Clinics

·         search by postal code here, call to do intake: https://www.legalaid.on.ca/en/contact/contact.asp?type=cl

WSIB/Injured Worker Issues

IAVGO (Industrial Accident Victims Group)

·         summary advice, brief services and possible representation for injured workers 416-924-4385 http://iavgo.org/contact-aiw/

Office of the Worker Advisor

·         Provides advice about workplace insurance or health, safety and reprisals http://www.owa.gov.on.ca/en/about/pages/contactus.aspx

•  Baycrest Seniors Support Program - 416-785-2500 ext. 2223 - https://www.baycrest.org/Baycrest/Healthcare-Programs-Services/Programs/Seniors-Support-Program

• Services include: Friendly Telephone Visit (phone call) each week (available in several languages); An email message from ePals each week; Access to a social worker for information, referral or brief counseling upon request
• Hours are Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• These services are free

• Chatting to Wellness - https://www.chattingtowellness.ca/ - 437-702-2025

• Friendly Neighbour Hotline - 1-855-581-9580 - uhnopenlab.ca/project/hotline - Volunteers coordinate grocery shopping and delivery. For seniors in low-income housing only.

• Ontario Caregiver Helpline – information and support for caregivers in Ontario: 1-833-416-2273 | Live chat available at ontariocaregiver.ca

• Ontario Community Supports Association

• Find your local Meals on Wheels organization or other community support HERE 

• Phone Pals Program - https://www.circleofcare.com/phone-pals/  - 416-635-2860

• Trained volunteers provide companionship and social contact to older adults through weekly phone calls.
• Service area: The service area runs from Major Mackenzie Rd W to St Clair Ave, and from Jane St to the Don Valley Parkway.

• Seniors Safety Line – for seniors who have experienced any type of abuse or neglect: 1-866-299-1011 | eapon.ca

• Student-Senior Isolation Prevention Partnership (University of Toronto and UHN Toronto Western Family Health Team initiative) - https://www.ssipp.info/ 

• Volunteer university health professional students (who speak many languages) are available to call or visit seniors to prevent isolation and provide COVID-19 information.
• Family physicians or health care providers can email ssippvolunteer@gmail.com  & staff will reply with information on how to refer patient through private, secured pathway.
• There may be a waitlist for services.

• Talk 2 NICE - http://www.nicenet.ca/talk2nice (online referral) - 1-844-529-7292 - Free check-in service specializing in the care of elderly community members

• Toronto Seniors Helpline - 416-217-2077 or 1-877-621-2077; torontoseniorshelpline.ca

• Seniors are encouraged to call the helpline for information about community resources (including transportation, crisis services, care at home, supportive counselling, caregiver resources), as well as any changes in service delivery during this time.

• Red Cross -

• Transportation

List for help getting to medical appointments → HERE 

Buddy Services - https://buddyservices.ca/   CALL: 647 - 955 - 0262

Who can use this:

• Seniors

If you DO NOT have WheelTrans OR can’t pay for a Taxi

• Staff will pick you up and take you to and from appointments
• Takes 1 person at a time
• Flat Fee: $35

If you HAVE WheelTrans OR can pay for a Taxi

• Volunteers can come with you to and from appointments
• NO FEE

Toronto Ride - Register through the Red Cross - 416 236 3180

• Takes 1 person at a time

Who can use this:

• Adults with disabilities over the age of 18 years old
• Will still take someone who already has WheelTrans

Fee: 

$3.60 each way

Could be $6.60 each way, depending on where you live in Toronto

If you live 10 km or more away - fee will be more

Technical Support for Seniors:

Connected Canadians is an Ottawa-based volunteer program offering free 1:1 support for seniors to improve technology literacy.

• Refer a senior by completing the online form at https://www.connectedcanadians.ca/programs

TechServeTO is a volunteer-based service offering free telephone or video chat to support seniors to improve their technology literacy within the GTA and beyond.

• Call 1-888-418-4771 to leave a message to book a time to be called back by a volunteer for education and assistance with technology. https://torontosun.com/news/local-news/volunteers-provide-tech-support-to-seniors-during-pandemic

Seniors Tech Services offers virtual, remote access or in-person support with technology or skill development for seniors in the GTA.

• 25 Sheppard Ave, W, Suite 300, Toronto M2N 6S6. 647-262-5658, info@seniorstechservices.ca.
• Cost is $50/hr. During the Covid pandemic, they are providing free, remote computer help to seniors in long term retirement homes.

One-on-One Tech Support for Seniors

• Sunshine Centres for Seniors is hosting one-on-one support sessions to help local seniors with their tech needs.
• All individuals are welcome to book sessions on Thursdays from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m.
• We will be providing LGBTQ+-specific hours on Tuesdays from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.
• To book a session, please contact techvolunteer@sunshinecentres.com or call 416-924-3979, ext. 55.

For up-to-date list of social supports in Toronto: www.Toronto.ca/covid19

You can also contact 211 Toronto (Call 2-1-1 for 24/7 support, or visit www.211ontario.ca  for online chat or to search directory of services)

"CareMongering-TO: TO Community Response to COVID19" Facebook Group:

Individuals in Toronto offering assistance through the community (e.g., picking up food/medications, running errands)

Connex Ontario: www.ConnexOntario.ca – 1-866-531-2600 - 24/7 telephone or online chat support for up-to-date information about mental health and addiction resources.

COVID-19 Care Packages: https://covid19relief.ca/

The Canadian Muslim Response Network (a collaboration among various organizations) are supporting vulnerable persons with care packages (e.g. food, sanitation products, personal hygiene) & providing support to those who are in isolation.

COVID-19 Resource Guide: HERE

• Information on public washrooms, showers, phone access, wifi access, open drop-ins, and more.

COVID-19: Stay, Play & Learn at Home: HERE

• Free activities for all ages to enjoy while at home.

Steps To Justice: stepstojustice.ca/legal-topic/covid-19 

• Numerous articles & FAQs regarding legal issues amidst COVID-19

Through Ruff Times  https://www.throughrufftimes.org/

• Temporary Pet care options. Minimum 5 days to maximum 90 day stay  
• Email info@throughrufftimes.org  or

complete the intake form →  https://www.throughrufftimes.org/pet-intake

Workers Action Centre: workersactioncentre.org/your-rights-are-changing-on-january-1-2019/

• Hotline is still open for people who are having trouble accessing supports. Services offered in multiple languages.

YMCA (www.ymca360.org) - 60 free online workout classes & free online programs for kids.

COVID-specific Mental Health Resources

Anxiety Canada - Coping with COVID-19 - https://www.anxietycanada.com/covid-19/

• Anxiety Canada has produced helpful articles as well as past virtual town hall meetings with panel discussions regarding coping with anxiety during COVID-19.

CAMH -  http://www.camh.ca/en/health-info/mental-health-and-covid-19

• Covid discussion forum: https://covid19.camhx.ca/mod/forum/view.php?id=1 

Coronavirus Anxiety Workbook (The Wellness Society)

• Download workbook at: https://thewellnesssociety.org/free-coronavirus-anxiety-workbook/ 
• Available in English, Spanish, and Dutch

COVID-19 Anxiety Care: https://www.virusanxiety.com/

COVID-19 Resources created by Medical Psychotherapy Association of Canada: https://www.mdpac.ca/Public/COVID-19_Resources.html

Mind Beacon – Stronger Minds - www.mindbeacon.com/strongerminds 

• Free digital program to support mental well-being through the COVID-19 pandemic.

SilverCloud - https://shoppers.silvercloudhealth.com/onboard/shoppers_offer/stress/ 

• Free online program, offered by Shoppers Drug Mart and designed to help individuals manage stress and build resilience during COVID-19
• Access code: SHOPPERS

Sunnybrook - Your Health Matters blog - http://health.sunnybrook.ca/covid-19-coronavirus/ 

Tara Brach - Mindfulness meditation - https://www.tarabrach.com/pandemic/ 

Tolerance for Uncertainty: A COVID-19 Workbook (Dr. Sachiko Nagasawa, Bay Psychology)

• Download workbook at: https://www.baypsychology.ca/workshops

For an extensive, crowd-sourced list of mental health/well-being resources, visit: takecare19.com 

https://www.camh.ca/en/health-info/mental-health-and-covid-19/information-for-professionals/covid-19-database-page 

Phone Supports

• Many Employee Assistance Programs (EAP) offer counselling support by phone or online messaging. Check with your employer or HR department for more information. 

• Family Service Toronto - 416-595-9618 - https://familyservicetoronto.org/our-services/virtual-workshops-and-groups/ 

• They are currently offering single-session phone counselling with their therapists. This service is free of charge, and available Monday to Friday, between 9am to 6pm.  

• Good2Talk  (1-866-925-5454) – Free, confidential, 24/7 helpline for post-secondary students, providing professional counselling as well as information and referrals for mental health support.

• Hope for Wellness Helpline - https://www.hopeforwellness.ca/; 1-855-242-3310         

24/7 Help Line and online chat offering immediate mental health counselling and crisis intervention to all Indigenous people across Canada
 

• Mood Disorders Association of Ontario (MDAO) TIPS Warm Line –

Offered Monday to Friday, 9:30am-5pm by calling 1-866-363-6663 

Peer support with trained volunteers. Open to all who have lived experience with mental illness and need a supportive and empathetic ear. Family members, friends, and caregivers are encouraged to call as well.

• The Warm Line – Mental health helpline for adults (18+). The service is open 7 days/week, from 8pm-12pm. The Warm Line provides emotional support and is not a crisis line.

Call: 416-960-9276            Text: 647-557-5882                  Online Chat: www.warmline.ca

• Wellness Together Canada - https://ca.portal.gs/ - 1-866-585-0445
• They offer same-day, single session phone counselling (available 24/7, for 18 years and older).
• You can call the number above and you will complete a brief intake. You may be immediately connected with a therapist, or a therapist may call you back within a few hours (depending on availability).
• Following your initial call, you may be referred to multi-session counselling (up to 3 additional sessions) with a dedicated therapist.
• You can call for single-session counselling as often as needed.

• WoodGreen Walk-In Counselling program - 416-645-6000 ext. 1990
• This is temporarily being offered over the phone. Tuesdays and Wednesdays beginning at 4:15 p.m., clients can call to speak with a counsellor for a one-hour session. Service offered on a first come, first served basis.

Individual Therapy

• Many private therapists as well as agencies that offer low-cost/OHIP-covered counselling services have switched over to phone or online video counselling for the time being.   Check agency websites directly and call to confirm available services as well as whether new referrals are still being accepted. View SCOPE Mental Health Resource Guide for an extensive list of low-cost/OHIP-covered counselling options across Toronto and GTA.

• Real Campus Student Assistance Program (run by Shift Collab). If you are a University or College student at eligible campuses you have access to free therapy sessions. Visit the website for eligibility here.

Free Programs:

AbilitiCBT by Morneau Shepell - ontario.abiliticbt.com 

In this program, you work through 10 structured modules, at your own pace, while a dedicated therapist monitors your progress: each module contains activities, videos and assignments to help you learn, develop and practice new skills.

There are scheduled check-ins along the way: you connect with your therapist by phone, video or chat. 

https://www.ontario.ca/page/covid-19-support-people#mental-health

Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA) - https://adaa.org/adaa-online-support-group

ADAA provides a wide range of free resources to the public including webinars, podcasts, blog posts, two online peer-to-peer support communities, a “find a therapist” directory and a monthly e-newsletter.

Mind Beacon - mindbeacon.com/ontario 

This is a therapist-assisted, digital CBT (TAiCBT) service. It includes unlimited online messaging with a dedicated therapist and access to CBT therapy for 12 weeks, as well as unlimited access to materials for one year.

There is usually a cost for the program ($635), but the provincial government is currently covering the cost for all Ontario residents.

CMHA – BounceBack  - www.bouncebackontario.ca; 1-866-345-0224

BounceBack is a free CBT-based skill-building program where a coach helps support you

over the phone in working through a series of workbooks based on your concerns.

Referral process: GP referral is preferred, but you can also self-refer online. No catchment.

Gerstein Centre - http://gersteincentre.org/stay-connected/

They are currently offering online support groups.

iCBT - Scarborough Health Network - www.shn.ca/mental-health/adult-outpatient-mental-health

Online CBT with email-based clinician support. Work through 6 modules of CBT at your own pace, with email communication with a mental health clinician at Scarborough Hospital.

Referral process: Email icbt@shn.ca and state that you’re interested in participating in iCBT program, and a therapist will follow up. No catchment.

Mind Relief - https://www.mindrelief.ca/

Online CBT and/or DBT therapy program. Consists of 20-min therapy appointments, with personalized psychotherapy materials to complete between sessions.

Referral process: Requires physician referral, which can be completed on website above.

Mood Disorders Association of Ontario (MDAO) 

MDAO offers a variety of phone/virtual support options, including individual and group peer support, and individual counselling.

To register for a peer support group, visit: https://app.acuityscheduling.com/schedule.php?owner=19361959&appointmentType=category:Peer%20Support%20Groups

To register for ongoing individual peer support or counselling, visit: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSf4fD5YZmD92fnocDV6k8ee8uLs02S53Pw3CoaXz5nw3KWepg/viewform

To access single-session peer support, call: 1-866-363-6663 or visit: https://app.acuityscheduling.com/schedule.php?owner=19361959&appointmentType=15237887

TeleCBT - https://telecbt.ca/  - Phone: 888-468-6178 - ext. 1

• OHIP-covered, CBT-informed, virtual or phone-based, one-on-one psychotherapy
• Offering counselling for: anxiety, depression, bereavement, chronic pain, coping with medical illness, illness/health anxiety, insomnia, OCD, panic, postpartum mood disorder, relationships, social anxiety, stress management, and weight management.
• They may also be able to offer counselling around trauma and/or addictions, but ask that you discuss this with intake
• Available to individuals aged 18 and above.
• Wait time: roughly 2-3 months
• Self-referral, call the number above, or complete online referral at website
• This service is currently OHIP-covered in response to the covid-19 pandemic, for an undetermined length of time

Turn2Me - https://turn2me.org/group-supports

Hosts free online support groups for anxiety, depression, stress management, suicidal thoughts and feelings, and more.

Wellness Together Canada: Mental Health and Substance Use Support https://ca.portal.gs/

• Created by the Government of Canada, this platform provides free, online resources & tools for Canadians
• They offer general, solution-focused, single session phone counselling (available 24/7, for 18 years and older).

• Following this initial call, you may be referred to multi-session counselling (up to 3 additional sessions) with a dedicated therapist. Call 1-866-585-0445 to access.
• You can call for single-session counselling as often as needed.

• NEED IMMEDIATE SUPPORT?   If you are in crisis or require support right away:

• Youth: Text WELLNESS to 686868
• Adults: Text WELLNESS to 741741

Fee for Service:

There are several text/ online chat/ video-based counselling services, with varying costs and service components, such as:

7 Cups – 7cups.com                    TalkSpace - talkspace.com             Better Help – betterhelp.com

Anxiety Canada  - www.anxietycanada.com

Online library of free, downloadable CBT worksheets to help you understand anxiety and learn strategies to tolerate and manage anxiety.

They also offer a self-guided course, My Anxiety Plan (maps.anxietycanada.com), with a version for Adults and Children/Teens.

Anxiety Canada also developed a free CBT app called MindShift.

CCI Self-Help Resources for Mental Health - www.cci.health.wa.gov.au/Resources/Looking-After-Yourself

Free workbooks for a range of concerns, including: Anxiety, Panic, Self-Compassion, & Worry and Rumination

CIMHS (Centre for Interactive Mental Health Solutions) - www.cimhs.com

Free online therapy program for depression, using CBT skills.

Mood Gym -  www.moodgym.com.au

Interactive online self-help program that teaches CBT skills to manage symptoms of depression and anxiety. Subscription is $40/year.   

Full Catastrophe Living (Kabat-Sinn & Nhat Hanh)

Mindfulness Meditation

Mind Over Mood (Greenberger & Padesky)

This best-selling workbook teaches skills and principles used in CBT.

The Anxiety and Phobia Workbook (Bourne)

The Mindfulness and Acceptance Workbook for Anxiety (Forsyth & Eifert)

Based on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

CBT skills-based support:

Mindfulness Meditation:

Mindshift – CBT tools & strategies for anxiety; (Developed by Anxiety Canada) Free

Sanvello (formerly Pacifica) – CBT tools for anxiety, depression, & stress (Premium membership currently free)

What’s Up – CBT & ACT (Acceptance & Commitment Therapy) tools to manage anxiety, depression, anger, & stress; Free

Calm

Headspace

Insight Timer

Anxiety and Depression Association of America - adaa.org/finding-help/mobile-apps

List of apps for anxiety and depression that are reviewed both in terms of usability and scientific basis.

Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) - http://aa-intergroup.org/directory.php

AA Sober Living - www.aasoberliving.com

Online recovery help for those in all stages of recovery, family, friends and loved ones including message boards, chats, blogs, and daily and weekly readings.

Canada Drug Rehab Addiction Services Directory – directory of alcohol, drug rehab and other addiction-related services: 1-888-245-6887 | canadadrugrehab.ca  

Cannabis Rehab - www.cannabisrehab.org

This free online drug rehab group was originally set up just to help those trying to quit marijuana but they now welcome anyone struggling with drug addiction.

Cocaine Anonymous - https://www.ca-online.org/

HAMS Harm Reduction Network - hamsnetwork.org

HAMS is a free of charge peer led support group for people who want to reduce the harm in their lives caused by alcohol or other substances. HAMS offers support via a chat room, an email group, and live meetings. HAMS supports every goal from safer use to reduced use to abstinence from alcohol. Their daily chat is schedule for 9 P.M. EST , 6 P.M. PST.

In the Rooms - https://www.intherooms.com/home/

A free online recovery tool that offers 130 weekly online meetings for those recovering from addiction and related issues. They embrace multiple pathways to recovery, including all 12 Step, Non-12 Step, Wellness and Mental Health modalities.

Life Ring - www.lifering.org/online-meetings

Abstinence based, secular, and self-empowered addiction recovery

Narcotics Anonymous (NA) - http://www.carna.ca/meeting.php

Overdose Prevention Line – a confidential number to call if you are alone and using drugs: 1-888-853-8542

SMART Recovery Online - www.smartrecovery.org/smart-…/smart-recovery-online/

Abstinence-based peer support group that utilizes motivational interviewing, mindfulness, and cognitive behavioural therapy tools and techniques.

Daily online meetings, message board, 24/7 live chat, and online recovery toolbox

SMART Recovery Toronto (smartrecoverytoronto.com) is also working to offer online meetings, check website for updates.

The National Overdose Response Service (NORS) - No Judgement. Just Love

• Available or anyone in Canada
• Call 1 - 888 - 688 - NORS (6677) for non-judgmental support for when you use substances alone
• For more information go → https://www.nors.ca/about