While the holiday season can be a happy one for many, it can also bring on stress and sadness for others.
“The holiday season can be a joyous time for most Albertans, ” said Human Services Minister Irfan Sabir. “But, that is not the case for everyone. We want people to know that help is available at any time, day or night.”
If you or someone you know is being abused, bullied, or suffering with mental illness, you can text or call the following supports:
Family Violence, Bullying, Child Abuse:
For domestic violence, bullying or abuse, staff are on hand 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Services are available in more than 170 languages. They’re also available through online chats daily from noon to 8 p.m.
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Family Violence Info Line: 310-1818
Bullying Helpline: 1-888-456-2323
Child Abuse Hotline: 1-800-387-KIDS (5437)
Economic Support:
The Income Support Contact Centre is available for emergency basic needs assistance.
In Edmonton: 780-644-5135
Outside Edmonton: 1-866-644-5135
Alberta Food Banks: 866-251-2326
Edmonton Food Bank: 780-425-4190
Calgary Food Bank: 403-253-2055
Mental Health Support:
The Mental Health Line is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week at 1-877-303-2642.
Programs and resources that affect the health, security and safety of Albertans will be available 24 hours a day, seven days a week from Dec. 24 to Jan. 3. Non-urgent government operations will be closed during this time with regular services resuming Jan. 4.
READ MORE: Alberta suicide rate up 30%, province looking for answers
Emergency Shelters:
To locate the shelter nearest you, call the Alberta Council of Women’s Shelters toll-free at 1-866-331-3933.
The Wheatland Shelter in Strathmore provides assistance to men with or without children. Call toll-free at 1‑877‑934‑6634.
Youth Emergency Shelter Society
Edmonton: 780-468-7070
49th Street Youth Shelter
Red Deer: 403-341-3190
Exit Youth Shelter
Calgary: 403-509-2323
Avenue 15 (Boys and Girls Clubs)
Calgary: 403-543-9651
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