When crisis strikes, knowing where to turn for help can make all the difference. Women in Toronto facing violence, abuse, mental health emergencies, or urgent needs for shelter have access to dedicated 24/7 hotlines and crisis services. Reaching out for support is a courageous first step toward safety and recovery.

If you or someone you know is in immediate danger or requires urgent police, fire, or medical assistance, dial 9‑1‑1 without hesitation.

• Primary crisis line for women across Ontario experiencing abuse
• Offers confidential crisis counselling, safety planning, and referrals to shelters and support services
• Call: 1‑866‑863‑0511 (TTY: 1‑866‑863‑7868 or 416‑364‑8762; Mobile: #SAFE)
• Website: awhl.org

• Comprehensive information and referral service for community and social supports
• Connects callers to emergency shelters, food banks, housing programs, and mental health services
• Call: 2‑1‑1
• Website: 211ontario.ca

• 24/7 mental health crisis intervention and short‑term shelter for adults aged 16+
• Provides assessment, de‑escalation, and referrals to follow‑up services
• Crisis Line: 416‑929‑5200
• Website: gersteincentre.org

• Confidential, 24/7 emotional support and suicide prevention for anyone in distress
• Trained volunteers listen without judgment and can guide callers to additional resources
• Crisis Line: 416‑408‑HELP (4357)
• Website: toronto.distresscentres.com

• 24/7 e‑mental health support for young people up to age 25
• Offers phone, text, and online chat counselling for children, teens, and young adults
• Call: 1‑800‑668‑6868
• Text: CONNECT to 686868
• Website: kidshelpphone.ca

• Individual shelters maintain confidential crisis lines for safe bed referrals
• Examples: Interval House, Nellie’s, Ernestine’s Women’s Place, Women’s Habitat of Etobicoke
• For privacy, start with AWHL or 211 to connect with the appropriate shelter intake

• Confidentiality: Calls remain private; you may choose not to share identifying information
• Non‑Judgmental Support: Trained staff or volunteers listen empathetically and without bias
• Safety Planning: Assistance in creating immediate and long‑term safety strategies
• Resource Referrals: Connections to shelters, legal aid, counseling, and community programs

After the initial call, many agencies offer continuing services:

• Emergency shelter admission and case management
• Individual or group counseling sessions
• Legal aid and advocacy for protection orders or court accompaniment
• Housing stability programs and financial assistance referrals

1. Save these numbers in your phone or keep them written somewhere safe.
2. Reach out as soon as you can — you deserve help and protection.
3. Ask about follow‑up services when you call, so you know what to expect next.
4. Share information discreetly with trusted friends or family members for additional support.