Emergency resources
emergency services
For immediate danger, medical emergencies, or imminent risk to life or safety, please call 911.
immediate services
Suicide Crisis Helpline: Call or text 988
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This helpline is support for anyone thinking about suicide or worried about someone.
Kids Help Phone (youth): 1-800-668-6868 or text CONNECT to 686868
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Confidential support for young people.
Hope for Wellness Help Line: 1-855-242-3310
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This helpline is support for Indigenous peoples across Canada.
Good2Talk (students): 1-866-925-5454
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This helpline is counselling and referral for post-secondary students in Ontario.
Crisis & distress lines
These services are available 24/7 to provide immediate emotional support, active listening, and crisis intervention.
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Here 24/7 (Waterloo–Wellington Regional Crisis Line) — 1-844-437-3247
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Compass Community Services Distress Line — 519-821-3760 or 1-888-821-3760
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Suicide Crisis Helpline (Canada) — Call or text 988
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Kids Help Phone — Call 1-800-668-6868 or text CONNECT to 686868
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Good2Talk (Students) — 1-866-925-5454

Caregiver & family support services
CARES by the South Asian Autism Awareness Centre
An eight‑week caregiver support program designed to lighten the mental load of caring for a loved one with complex needs. CARES offers virtual and in‑person sessions at different times (morning and evening) and provides a structured space for connection, shared learning, and mutual support.
Website: https://thecaresprogram.org/​​
Ontario caregiver helpline
A free, province‑wide service offering information, guidance, and referrals specifically for caregivers. The helpline can connect you with supports tailored to your caregiving situation and help you access local programs and services.
Phone: 1‑833‑416‑2273
connections behaviour consulting (Cbc)
A local centre offering Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) therapy and respite services for children and youth with complex needs including Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD). Supports may include individualized programming, behaviour consultation, caregiver coaching, and structured respite to support family well‑being.
Website: https://connectionsbc.com/
community living guelph wellington
Provides family support, developmental services, recreational programs, and social opportunities for individuals with disabilities and their caregivers. Services emphasize community inclusion, skill building, and supportive connections that benefit both caregivers and family members.
Website:

Youth & young adults support
THE GROVE HUB
A free, barrier‑free drop‑in space offering mental health support, substance use resources, and wellness services for youth aged 12–26. Supports include connection, counselling, and life‑skills resources in multiple community locations.
Website: https://www.thegrovehubs.ca/
good2talk
A free, confidential support line for post‑secondary students across Ontario, providing counselling, information, and referrals: 1‑866‑925‑5454 or text GOOD2TALKON to 686868.
Website: https://good2talk.ca/

neurodiversity-affirming supports
Guelph adhd & autism meetup group
A local community group for people with ADHD, autism, and their families or partners, offering opportunities to share experiences, learn together, and build connection in a queer‑positive space.
Website: https://www.meetup.com/guelphadhdautismmeetupgroup/
peer support group -
Help is here
Facilitated peer support for individuals who identify as neurodivergent, offering validation, connection, and shared strategies with others who understand overlapping experiences of neurodivergence and mental health.
Website: https://www.helpisherewellington.com/events/neurodivergent-peer-support-group-with-katie-kass-1?

