Youth: Community Resources

You will face challenges moving to a new place but you don’t have to face them alone. Government and non-profit agencies can answer your questions and provide support to help you with a number of issues, ranging from health, safety and sexuality to school concerns.

Communicating

When you first arrive, you may not have Internet access at home, but you can get online at your local public library or through the Ontario Community Access Program.

To find links to language classes and libraries, visit the Getting Involved in Your Community section.

Justice

If you believe you are the victim of a crime, consult the Ontario Provincial Police. They also provide tip sheets on issues like cyber bullying and hate crime.

If you become involved in the justice system and need legal support, consult Youth Justice Ontario.

School

If you need extra support at school, seek out your school’s Student Success Team, composed of principals, teachers and guidance counsellors.

Homework help - Internet Public Library’s Teenspace

Learning disabilities - Youth2Youth

Tough Issues

Sometimes as a newcomer you may find yourself in difficult situations, where you have questions but may not want to ask your parents or a teacher. Or, you may want to find help for a friend. There are many resources available to help you face tough issues by providing you with counselling and information. Don’t feel shy about using them – these services are confidential.

Counselling

If you want to talk to someone about a problem you are having, you can call or chat with a counsellor at Kids Help Phone. Their job is to help kids. It’s free and you won’t have to give them your name or any other personal information. You can also check out their Link Library if you are looking for a specific resource.

If you would rather talk to someone your own age, Hearing Every Youth through Youth (H.E.Y.Y.) operates a peer counselling line.