Our Volunteers work hard to answer each and every call but they can't do it alone.
We rely on a caring community to help maintain our services 24 Hours A Day, for people who are in distress or crisis. We look to people like you who want a better quality of life in our community, and greater opportunities for people to thrive. We can’t operate without your compassion, tremendous generosity and your belief in what we do.
Your Donations Help Support Critical Mental Health Services
24/7 Distress & Crisis Line
Since1969, we have offered support to members of the the community on issues that impact their well-being or ability to cope. From emotional support, and problem solving, to crisis and suicide intervention. We are here for over 60,000 calls per year.
Awareness & Education
It takes work to build awareness. We attend community events, deliver training programs, distribute educational materials and participate in media interviews. We also run annual campaigns to attract volunteers. Please Donate and help us spread the word!
Critical Technology
Technology is critical to maintaining our crisis response team. From our complex phone systems integrated with Paramedic and Police services, to our data management system which allow us to access information on the more than 4,000 services and organizations that we refer our callers to, our systems need to continually evolve to keep pace. Donations to our Technology fund help us ensure that our volunteers are there when they're needed.
200 Volunteers
Over 200 volunteers are on The Distress Centre phones each year. These highly-trained volunteers provide compassionate support to anyone in distress. 200 Volunteers x 200 hours means 40,000 phone hours per year. Help us support them in the vital work they do.
When you donate to the Distress Centre of Ottawa and Region, you are contributing to improved public awareness on mental health issues and access to supports. Donations aid people in crisis and help prevent suicide.