In 2017, we saw the need for all of our services increase by 7.2%. And this need continues to grow in 2018.
Our trained volunteers and staff work hard to ensure that Distress Centre remains open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year to connect with people when they need it. This includes our free 24-hour crisis, ConnecTeen and 211 lines, and in-person professional counselling services.
We’ve seen the need for these services climb over the last few years. In particular, demand for our crisis services (phone, text, chat, and email) has seen year over year increases. Contacts have increased by 19.2% compared to 2015 and by 27.4% compared to 2013.That means we need people like you to help us continue to grow – so we can expand our services to connect with those in crisis or in need of support.
“We are giving people the one thing everyone needs (but doesn’t always get) – someone who actually listens and genuinely cares, no matter the problem. Something as simple as listening has the power to impact people in the way they view themselves and the way they interact in the world.”
-Distress Centre Volunteer
$25
A safe ride home for a youth volunteer working a late shift on ConnecTeen.
$120
A gift card to help cover the monthly cost of groceries for an individual accessing our Basic Needs Fund.
$250
A holiday meal for the group of volunteers who stay to respond to the 24-hour crisis line on Christmas, Thanksgiving or Easter weekend.
$365
Learning materials for a group of 25 volunteers in training.
$750
The damage deposit to help a woman fleeing domestic violence find a new home.
$2,300
Recruitment, training and mentorship support for one crisis line volunteer over the course of a year.
“One day it could be you. It could be you in a crisis with nowhere to turn, and that’s when you’ll call us – and we’ll be here.”
-Distress Centre Volunteer