9-8-8 is the new, nationwide suicide crisis helpline. It is the line to call if you, or someone who know, are dealing with thoughts of suicide.
9-8-8 is the new, nationwide suicide crisis helpline. It is the line to call if you, or someone who know, are dealing with thoughts of suicide.
The introduction of a central, three-digit crisis line is an update I have been advocating for since my campaign for office. This 24/7 line has the potential to save lives by making it easier for people to access help when they need it most.
With mental health being a top priority across the city and the country, I am thrilled to see this nationwide service being launched.
How does 9-8-8 work?
When you call or text 9-8-8, you will reach a responder at one of nearly 40 local, provincial and territorial, and national crisis lines, who work together to deliver the service. When calling from Toronto, you will be connected to Gerstein Crisis Centre. Once connected, the responder will listen without judgement, provide support and understanding, and connect you to other resources that may be helpful.
How is 9-8-8 different from other crisis lines?
9-8-8 is a suicide prevention-focused crisis line. In most situations, 9-8-8 responders will not involve police or other emergency services.
If you require immediate, in-person, attention from a crisis outreach team, call 2-1-1 to reach the Toronto Community Crisis Service (TCCS), who will dispatch a trained team of multidisciplinary crisis workers.
If you are in an emergency situation requiring police, firefighters, or paramedics, call the emergency 9-1-1 line.
About Gerstein Crisis Centre
Gerstein Crisis Centre, located at 100 Charles Street East here in Toronto Centre, has been providing community-based crisis support since 1989. In addition to delivering the new 9-8-8 service, Gerstein Crisis Centre's work also includes an in-person mobile crisis team, community support referrals, substance use crisis management and access to short-term crisis beds.
For more information visit 988.ca
Join the Federation of Metro Tenants and learn about your rights under the law, meet other tenant leaders and strategize to take action against bad landlords! Tenants and Tenant Association leaders in Toronto are welcome to come to the Tenant School on May 30. This is an intensive training with classes taught by lawyers and community advocates.
A new mural is coming to Central Neighbourhood House, and we need your feedback! In response to community feedback, the site for the mural–a project from my 2024 Participatory Budgeting exercise–has been moved from 237 Gerrard Street East to Central Neighbourhood House (349 Ontario Street), which offers a larger canvas.
Please fill out this survey to provide feedback on the mural location and theme.
You might not know it from the recent rollercoaster of weather, but spring has arrived in Toronto. Hot on its heels, our first Environment Day is happening at Allan Gardens on May 10, the Underpass Park Farmers' Market is opening May 14, and patio season begins right around the Victoria Day weekend. Let’s get out, enjoy our open spaces, support local businesses, and celebrate the warmer weather!
The pedestrianization of two blocks of Church Street this summer is a major initiative that I have been working on with the Church-Wellesley Business Improvement Area. From June 19 - August 21, Church Street will be pedestrianized between Wellesley Street East and Alexander Street. To date, over 2,200 people have signed a petition in support of this, and I invite you to add your support by visiting the Toronto Centre Projects website.