Local Community Leisure Guides in Niagara

Frequently Asked Questions and Video Tour

Community Safety

Automobile Protection Association

2 Carlton St
Suite 1319 Toronto, ON
M5B 1J3

Consumer information and advocacy regarding automotive industry

free legal advice to members, nonmembers receive basic information
publishes Lemon Aid -- guide to new and used car recommendations, defects and re-calls

https://www.apa.ca/

apatoronto@apa.ca

Office: 416-204-1444

Office -- Mon-Fri 9 am-12 noon, 1:00 pm-4:30 pm

Bethlehem Housing and Support Services - Violence Against Women Services

58 Welland Ave
St Catharines, ON
L2R 2M5

Assists women who have experienced abuse during the course of their lives. Abuse may have occurred during a past relationship or it may be an ongoing concern in a current relationship.

Community Support Workers meet with participants and offer supports including safety planning, referrals to emergency shelters, advocacy, and accompaniment.

Operates from a feminist perspective which includes empowerment, re-affirmation, support, and advocacy, while maintaining a non-judgmental approach.

Support services include:

Short-term, supportive counselling for women in the community
Development of safety strategies or plans for women and their children
Provision of information on rights, options, and available services
Referrals or linking women to appropriate services
Cultural interpretation
Advocacy with other agencies (i.e. legal, financial, etc.)

Not a crisis service.

https://www.bethlehemhousing.ca

intake@bethlehemhousing.ca

Intake Support Worker: 905-641-1660 ext 227

Fax: 905-684-1666

Call for information

Birchway Niagara

8903 McLeod Rd
Niagara Falls, ON
L2H 3S6

Provides shelter and services for women and children experiencing abuse. Services include:

24-hour support line (call or text - 905-356-5800)
Counselling and emotional support for women and children/youth who are being or who have been abused
Development of safety plans
Transitional and housing support
Public education programs
Referrals

Family Court Support Worker Program -- information on the family court process * assistance in preparing for family court proceedings (documenting history of abuse, accessing Legal Aid) * referral to specialized services and supports in the community * safety planning * court accompaniment to proceedings when appropriate

Services are available on an in-shelter or office visit basis.

https://birchway.ca/

info@birchway.ca

Office: 905-356-3933

Crisis: 905-356-5800

Administration Mon-Thu 9 am-5 pm, Fri 9 am-1 pm
Support Line/Shelter Services Mon-Sun 24 hours

Canada. Members of Parliament - Federal Services to Constituents, Niagara Centre Electoral District - Welland Office

136 East Main St
Unit 103 Welland, ON
L3B 3W6

COVID-19: Office is closed to the public for in-person appointments. Staff are working remotely to continue assisting residents. Please call the office and leave a message or email and someone will get back to you as soon as possible.

Constituency office of elected Federal representative * Vance Badawey is a member of the Liberal Party

Provides advice, information and assistance on all Federal Programs * This office will provide guidance with filling out government forms * No postage is required when writing to a Member of Parliament

Can arrange for greetings from the Queen for anniversaries of 60 years or more, and birthdays of 100 years or more (in five-year increments).

https://vancebadawey.libparl.ca

vance.badawey@parl.gc.ca

Office: 905-788-2204

Fax: 905-788-0071

Tue-Fri 9:30 am-4:30 pm

Canada. Members of Parliament - Federal Services to Constituents, Niagara Falls Federal Electoral District - Fort Erie Office

48 Jarvis St
Fort Erie, ON
L2A 2S3

Constituency office of the elected Federal representative. * Tony Baldinelli, member of Conservative Party

Provides advice, information and assistance on all Federal Programs * No postage is required when writing to a Member of Parliament

Can arrange for greetings from the Queen for anniversaries of 60 years or more, and birthdays of 100 years or more (in five-year increments).

Office: 905-871-9991

Fax: 905-871-5046

Tue-Fri 9:30 am-1 pm, 2 pm-5 pm by appointment

Canada. Members of Parliament - Federal Services to Constituents, Niagara Falls Federal Electoral District - Niagara Falls Office

4056 Dorchester Rd
Niagara Falls, ON
N2E 6M9

Office: 905-353-9590

Fax: 905-353-9588

Mon-Fri 9 am-4:30 pm by appointment

Canada. Members of Parliament - Federal Services to Constituents, Niagara West - Federal Electoral District

4994 King St
Lincoln, ON
L0R 1B0

Constituency office of elected Federal representative * Dean Allison is a member of the Conservative Party

Provides advice, information and assistance on all Federal Programs * This office will assist with completing government forms * No postage is required when writing to a Member of Parliament

Can arrange for greetings from the Queen for anniversaries of 60 years or more, and birthdays of 100 years or more (in five-year increments).

https://www.deanallison.ca

info@deanallison.ca

Office: 905-563-7900

Toll Free: 1-877-563-7900

Fax: 905-563-7500

Mon-Fri 9:30 am-4 pm

Canada. Members of Parliament - Federal Services to Constituents, St Catharines Federal Electoral District

61 Geneva St
Unit 1 St Catharines, ON
L2M 4M6

Constituency office of elected Federal representative * Chris Bittle is a member of the Liberal Party

Provides advice, information and assistance on all Federal Programs * This office will assist with completing government forms * No postage is required when writing to a Member of Parliament

Can arrange for greetings from the Prime Minster for anniversaries 25 year or more, and birthdays of 65 years or more (in five-year increments), greetings from the Governor General for anniversaries of 50 years or more, and birthdays of 90 years or more (in five-year increments), and from the Queen for anniversaries of 60 years or more, and birthdays of 100 years or more (in five-year increments).

https://chrisbittlemp.ca

chris.bittle@parl.gc.ca

Office: 905-934-6767

Toll Free: 1-866-784-8518

Fax: 905-934-1577

Mon-Fri 9 am-5 pm

Centre de santé communautaire Hamilton / Niagara, Centre de santé communautaire Niagara - Counselling and Community Initiatives

810 East Main St
Welland, ON
L3B 3Y4

COVID-19: Adult mental health services appointment offered through telephone or OTN for CSCHN clients.

Children's Mental Health Program:

A wide variety of services are available to assist children, youth and families coping with mild to moderate mental health issues. Individualized assessment, counselling, case management and follow-up services are available to French-speaking children who have been exposed both directly and indirectly to some form of trauma such as violence, abuse, intimidation, war or torture.

The Service Coordination Program provides assistance to children and youth who require specialized mental health services that are currently not available in French. Services in this program may include: accompaniments and interpretation services, assisting English-speaking mental health professionals in the development of case plans for French-speaking clients, carrying out client assessments, counselling/treatment and case management services as agreed upon and in collaboration with the English-speaking service provider.

Adult Counselling Services:

Counselling services for those facing issues such as depression, bereavement, relationship difficulties with children etc.

Provides counselling and transitional support services for individuals identifying as women and for women who have been or are currently victims of abuse and/or sexual abuse. Also offering services for men who have been victims of abuse and/or sexual abuse during their childhood. Practical assistance such as accompaniments to lawyers' appointments, referrals to shelters or other housing options and safety planning are available. Off site services may be available to abusive partners through the Partner Abuse Response (PAR) program.

The CSC also partners with a 24 hour French Language Crisis line for victims of woman abuse "Femaide" 1-877-336-2433 1-877-FEMAIDE.

https://www.cschn.ca

cschn@cschn.ca

Office: 905-734-1141

Crisis : 1-877-336-2433 (1-877-FEMAIDE)

Toll Free: 1-866-885-5947

Fax: 905-734-1678

Mon-Fri 9 am-5 pm

CLEO

180 Dundas St W
Suite 506 Toronto, ON
M5G 1Z8

Community Legal Education Ontario
Legal information available online and in print on income assistance, tenant law, refugee and immigration law, employment law, family law, domestic and elder abuse, debt and consumer rights and collection agencies, health and disability, some criminal issues

ESL resources for teachers
most publications available in French

Legal information for new Canadians -- print materials in Arabic, Chinese (Mandarin and Simplified Chinese), English, French, Somali, Spanish, Tamil and Urdu

CLEO Connect, cleoconnect.ca -- provides public legal education and information to help community workers assist clients with legal problems

free training, tools and resources including webinars, podcasts, and research

Funded by Legal Aid Ontario, the Law Foundation of Ontario and Department of Justice Canada

https://www.cleo.on.ca

info@cleo.on.ca

Office: 416-408-4420

Fax: 416-408-4424

Mon-Fri 9 am-5 pm

Community Care, St Catharines and Thorold - Housing Help Centre

129 Church St
St Catharines, ON
L2R 3E2

Provides a free and confidential housing referral and consultation service.

Helps with:

assistance and information to help solve housing problems
people who are homeless or at risk of being homeless to find and maintain permanent accommodation within the local community
landlords to find tenants and helps to resolve conflicts between landlords and tenants
basic information on the Residential Tenancies Act

Also offers:

money management - trusteeship service (including youth 16-24)
regional identification clinic

Utility Assistance: Provides intake for the Niagara Emergency Energy Fund (NEEF) and the Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LEAP) for emergency financial assistance for low income households facing disconnection (gas or hydro). Also provides intake for the Ontario Electricity Support Program (OESP) to lower electricity bills for low-income households.

https://www.communitycarestca.ca

hhc@communitycarestca.ca

Office: 905-984-8955

Fax: 905-984-8838

Mon-Fri 9 am-3 pm

Crime Stoppers of Niagara

198 Cushman Rd
Unit 2 St Catharines, ON
L2M 6T3

A program run by volunteers and that is NOT a part of the police. Information supplied to police through this community involvement assists in both solving and preventing crime.

While the fastest and most effective way to report a crime is by calling police directly, Crime Stoppers offers a method of reporting that guarantees anonymity.

Callers to Crime Stoppers can neither be asked nor subpoenaed to appear in court when they supply information to Crime Stoppers.

Cash rewards of up to $2000 are offered to persons who call the program with information that leads to an arrest.

Information can be supplied to Crime Stoppers of Niagara through encrypted web tips or phone tips.

Elder Abuse Program: Providing education to the community and cross sector service industry regarding elder abuse, as well as frauds and scams. Providing a connection to community partners that assist with concerns of elder abuse.

https://www.crimestoppersniagara.ca

Toll Free: 1-800-222-8477

Mon-Sun 24 hours

Design for A New Tomorrow

60 James St
Suite 502 St Catharines, ON
L2R 7E7

Support individuals who have experienced abuse in intimate adult relationships in their journey towards healthy self-directed lives and respectful relationships.

A community based program funded by the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services which provides individual and group counselling to enable women to become non-victims of physical or mental abuse. Participates in the Coalition to End Violence Against Women, which promotes and facilitates a coordinated community response to the abatement of violence against women.

* public education * intervention * treatment * follow-up * counselling * women's group

The Partner Assault Response Program in partnership with the Family Counselling Centre) * Funded by the Ministry of the Attorney General * for individuals who have been abusive to their partners and are committed to change * Individuals who are ordered by the court to attend the program in response to a criminal charge involving domestic violence * Sliding fee schedule for service

Neighbours, Friend and Families Campaign - raises awareness of the signs of woman abuse. Speakers are available, please contact the office.

https://www.design4newtomorrow.ca

dfnt@dfnt.ca

Office: 905-684-1223 ext 1

Fax: 905-684-8067

Mon-Fri 8:30 am-4:30 pm

Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario

25 Sheppard Ave W
Suite 100 Toronto, ON
M2N 6S6

Information and assistance on insurance (including life, health, property, disability, automobile), pension plans, loan and trust companies, deposit insurance, credit unions and caisses populaires, mortgage brokers, cooperatives

regulates industry practices, companies, agents and adjusters
protects interests of consumers, receives complaints
dispute resolution services
arm's length agency of Ontario Ministry of Finance

Motor Vehicle Accident Claims Fund (MVACF)
Call 416-250-1422, 1-800-268-7188

provides compensation to people injured in automobile accidents when no automobile insurance exists to respond to the claim

https://www.fsrao.ca/

contactcentre@fsrao.gov.on.ca

Office: 416-250-7250

Toll Free: 1-800-668-0128

Mon-Fri 8 am-5 pm ; closed statutory holidays

Gillian's Place

15 Gibson Place
St Catharines, ON
L2R 0A3

Offer confidential, non-judgmental advice and support for women, non-binary individuals, and their children experiencing gender-based violence and abuse.

Services include:

compassionate one-on-one and group counselling
emergency accommodation and transportation
safety planning
child and youth programming
violence prevention programs and education
second-stage housing
transitional housing and support
legal advice and support

Family Court Support Worker Program -- -- information on the family court process * assistance in preparing for family court proceedings (documenting history of abuse, accessing Legal Aid) * referral to specialized services and supports in the community * safety planning * court accompaniment to proceedings when appropriate

Women do not have to stay at the shelter to access any of the free, confidential services. The goal is to provide safety, support and empowerment to vulnerable women, Two-spirit, gender queer, trans and non-binary individuals in the community.

https://www.gilliansplace.com

development@gilliansplace.com

Administration : 905-684-4000

Crisis: 905-684-8331

Fundraising : 905-684-4000 ext 254

Fax: 1-866-617-7604

Mon-Sun 24 hours

Insurance Bureau of Canada - Consumer Information Centre

777 Bay St
Suite 2400 Toronto, ON
M5G 2C8

Handles questions and concerns about automobile, property and liability insurance

information on loss prevention, safety tips
presentations to community groups on insurance related topics

Community Assistance Mobile Pavilion (CAMP), national program to assist disaster victims at disaster sites that have significant insured damage, victims able to access insurance-related information on-site

http://www.ibc.ca/on/home

Office: 416-362-2031

Stop Insurance Crime: 1-877-422-8477

Toll Free: 1-844-227-5422

Fax: 416-361-5952

Mon-Fri 9 am-5 pm

Landlord's Self Help Centre

55 University Ave
15th Fl Toronto, ON
M5J 2H7

Community legal clinic and resource centre

information, referrals and summary advice on housing issues from landlord's perspective
educational tools
law reform
rental forms
funded by Legal Aid

https://landlordselfhelp.com

info@landlordselfhelp.com

Office: 416-504-5190

Toll Free: 1-800-730-3218

Fax: 416-504-1932

Mon-Tue, Thu-Fri 9 am-5 pm

Law Society of Ontario - Law Society Referral Service

Osgoode Hall, 130 Queen St W
Toronto, ON
M5H 2N6

Online referral service -- www.findlegalhelp.ca

telephone referrals for those in crisis or without internet access only
referrals made to participating lawyer/paralegal
lawyers/paralegals will provide up to one free half hour of consultation by telephone or in person
fees for subsequent consultation or any legal work are negotiated with the lawyer/paralegal

Law Society Lawyer and Paralegal Directory -- www.lso.ca/public-resources/finding-a-lawyer-or-paralegal/lawyer-and-paralegal-directory

Does not provide legal advice

https://www.lso.ca/public-resources/finding-a-lawyer-or-paralegal/law-society-referral-service?lang=en-ca

lsrs@lso.ca

Office: 1-855-947-5255

Hotline: 416-947-5255

Fax: 416-947-3924

TTY: 416-644-4886

Online -- Mon-Sun 24 hours; Crisis -- Mon-Fri 9 am-5 pm

Legal Aid Ontario - Legal Aid Ontario, Provincial Head Office

20 Dundas St W
Suite 730 Toronto, ON
M5G 2H1

COVID-19 -- offering remote and in-person services, check service updates on www.legalaid.on.ca/news/covid-19-update-on-our-client-services

----------------------------------------

Free legal information, advice and other services

Legal Aid Certificates

reimburses participating lawyers for services rendered on behalf of client
client may have to agree to repay all or part of legal fees
financial assessment required
only granted for serious legal matters such as criminal, family or immigration and refugee law

Duty Counsel

provides legal representation for low-income people appearing in court without a lawyer
advice and information
criminal, family and tenant cases
mental health duty counsel for persons living in psychiatric facilities

Community Legal Clinics

nonprofit independent and specialty legal centres funded by Legal Aid Ontario -- see separate entries
legal assistance in areas such as housing law, social assistance and other income support programs
client may be asked to contribute towards disbursements

Family Law Service Centres (FLSC)

range of legal resources and support for family matters -- see separate entries
located in Toronto Central, Toronto North, Newmarket, Brampton, Chatham and Sarnia
Family Law Information Centres (FLICs) -- advice lawyer, located at certain courts

Refugee Law Office -- legal assistance to refugee claimants and immigrants eligible for legal aid, see separate entry

https://www.legalaid.on.ca

info@lao.on.ca

Office: 416-979-1446

Toll Free: Ontario-wide 1-800-668-8258; free from any pay phone, collect calls accepted

Fax: 416-979-8669

TTY: 416-598-8867; toll-free 1-866-641-8867

Mon-Fri 8 am-5 pm

Niagara (Region of). Community Services Department - Seniors Services - Seniors Community Programs: Niagara Gatekeepers Program

1815 Sir Isaac Brock Way
Thorold, ON
L2V 4T7

Phone line that anyone in the community can call to help connect at-risk older adults with programs and services. The Niagara Gatekeeper program works in collaboration with local partner agencies.

Referrals are made to the most appropriate partner agency. Upon consent from the older adult, the partner agency will provide education around local programs and assist in the coordination of referrals to a range of services and supports.

Services are intended to help individuals remain safe and independent at home for as long as possible. The referral line is confidential and callers may remain anonymous..

A senior showing the following signs may need assistance:

difficulty communicating, including confusion, memory loss, becoming withdrawn, hostile or angry
changes to personal appearance, including poor hygiene, grooming, wearing dirty or inappropriate clothing
deteriorating home conditions, including extreme neglect or disrepair, bad odoiurs, excessive clutter, neglected pets, lack of food
deteriorating health such as difficulty seeing, speaking or hearing, poor mobility or balance, recent falls, significant weigh loss, injuries or untreated wounds
decreased ability to handle money or pay bills
unusual transactions
inability to cope with the recent loss of a spouse or family member, friend or pet

https://www.niagararegion.ca/living/seniors/gatekeepers.aspx

Office: 905-684-0968

Administration: 905-984-2621

Fax: 905-984-6409

Referral Line Mon-Sun 8:30 am-8:30 pm

Niagara Community Legal Clinic

8 Church St
2nd Fl St Catharines, ON
L2R 7A7

Provides summary legal advice, legal representation, and public education on legal matters.

Areas of law that the clinic deals with:

Ontario Disability Support Program
Workplace Safety and Insurance
Issues with various government agencies
Immigration and Refugee matters
Ontario Works
Employment Law
Residential Tenancies Act
Canada Pension Plan/Income Security Programs
Consumer and Debt Problems

Can also assist with:

Advice (free and not income tested)
Wills and Powers of Attorney
Advocacy
Community Organizing
Public Legal Education and Information
Law Reform
Representation before Courts and Tribunals

See website for information and tips on a variety of legal topics.

Satellite locations (by appointment only):

Canadian Mental Health Association
20 Jarvis Street, Fort Erie
Tuesdays

Community Care of St. Catharines & Thorold
19 Albert Street West, Thorold
Wednesdays

Port Cares
92 Charlotte Street, Port Colborne
Thursdays

Lighthouse Church
241 Elmwood, Crystal Beach
Thursdays

www.niagaracommunitylegalclinic.com

Office: 905-682-6635

Toll Free: 1-877-801-5956

Mon-Fri 8:30 am-12 noon

Niagara Community Legal Clinic

15 Burgar St
Suite 100 Welland, ON
L3B 2S6

Provides summary legal advice, legal representation, and public education on legal matters.

Areas of law that the clinic deals with:

Ontario Disability Support Program
Workplace Safety and Insurance
Issues with various government agencies
Immigration and Refugee matters
Ontario Works
Employment Law
Residential Tenancies Act
Canada Pension Plan/Income Security Programs
Consumer and Debt Problems

Can also assist with:

Advice (free and not income tested)
Wills and Powers of Attorney
Advocacy
Community Organizing
Public Legal Education and Information
Law Reform
Representation before Courts and Tribunals

www.niagaracommunitylegalclinic.com

Office: 905-682-6635

Toll Free: 1-877-801-5956

Mon-Fri 8:30 am-12 noon

Niagara Health - Sexual Assault / Domestic Violence Treatment Program

St Catharines Site, 1200 Fourth Ave
St Catharines, ON
L2S 0A9

Serves anyone reporting to an emergency department in the Niagara Region.

Provides 24 hour emergency medical care and crisis intervention to all individuals (male and female) who have been sexually assaulted or victims of domestic violence within the last 12 days. Services are provided through a specialized team sensitive to the needs of survivors. Options of care include emotional support, prophylactic treatment of sexually transmitted diseases, HIV post exposure prophylaxis, pregnancy prevention, and the collection of forensic evidence to assist in the legal process. Victims of domestic violence have options of medical treatment, documentation of injuries, safety planning and police involvement.

For emergency treatment, go to any emergency department in the Niagara Region. The Sexual Assault/Domestic Violence Treatment Program nurse will be paged.

Counselling Program: Offers short-term trauma counselling to recent victims (within 2 years of the assault/abuse) of sexual violence or intimate partner violence to individuals 16 years of age and older. A social worker is available to answer questions and/or determine eligibility for counselling services every Wednesday morning between 9 am-12 noon. Call for information.

https://www.niagarahealth.on.ca/site/sexual-assault-domestic-violence-treatment-program

Office: 905-378-4647 ext 45300

Emergency Medical Service Mon-Sun 24 hours * Counselling Intake Wed 9 am-12 noon

Niagara Regional Police Service

5700 Valley Way
Niagara Falls, ON
L2E 1X8

Provides policing and public safety services throughout the Region of Niagara.

For emergency assistance, dial 9-1-1. An operator will answer and request which service is required. Callers will then be connected to either the police, fire or ambulance service in their area. Please stay on the line until told to hang up. Let the operator control the conversation and answer all questions as much as possible. In emergency situations, help is on the way as information is being given.

Text with 9-1-1 service is available for members of the Deaf, hard of hearing or speech impaired (DHHSI) community. More information on this service is available by visiting www.textwith911.ca.

Police Record Checks can be done in person at any of the NRPS locations throughout the region. Police checks can also be done online.

Complaints against the police can be filed at any municipal, regional or provincial police station in Ontario, or with the Office of the Independent Police Review Director (OIPRD) by fax, through their website, in person or by mail.

https://www.niagarapolice.ca

Office: 905-688-4111 ext 1022200

Crisis: 9-1-1

Front Desk and Emergency Service Mon-Sun 24 hours

Niagara Regional Police Service

650 Gilmore Rd
Fort Erie, ON
L2A 5M4

https://www.niagarapolice.ca

Office: 905-871-2300 ext 1022300

Crisis: 9-1-1

Front Desk Mon-Fri 9 am-1 pm, 2 pm-4 pm
Emergency Service Mon-Sun 24 hours

Niagara Regional Police Service

45 Clarke St
Grimsby, ON
L3M 1Y5

https://www.niagarapolice.ca

Office: 905-945-2211 ext 1025400

Crisis: 9-1-1

Front Desk Mon-Fri 8 am-2:30 pm
Emergency Service Mon-Sun 24 hours

Niagara Regional Police Service

501 Fielden Ave
Port Colborne, ON
L3K 4T9

https://www.niagarapolice.ca

Office: 905-735-7811 ext 1023200

Crisis: 9-1-1

Front Desk Mon-Fri 8 am-3 pm
Emergency Service Mon-Sun 24 hours

Niagara Regional Police Service

198 Welland Ave
St Catharines, ON
L2R 2P3

https://www.niagarapolice.ca

Office: 905-688-4111 ext 1024233

Crisis: 9-1-1

Front Desk Mon-Fri 7 am-8 pm
Emergency Service Mon-Sun 24 hours

Niagara Regional Police Service

5 Lincoln St W
Welland, ON
L3C 5H9

https://www.niagarapolice.ca

Office: 905-735-7811 ext 1023300

Crisis: 9-1-1

Front Desk Mon-Fri 7 am-8 pm
Emergency Service Mon-Sun 24 hours

Niagara Sexual Assault Centre

Landmark Building; 43 Church St
Suite 503 St Catharines, ON
L2R 7E1

Provides support, individual and group counselling to women, men, victims/survivors of human trafficking and others who have experienced rape, sexual assault, incest and childhood sexual abuse * 24 hour crisis support line - offering support/information for recent or past rape, sexual assault and abuse

Individual/group counselling and theme-based workshops for survivors * Support also available for family and friends * Outreach counselling available at several locations throughout Niagara region including Niagara Falls, Fort Erie, Port Colborne, Welland and West Lincoln

Hospital Response Workers provide accompaniment, emotional support and advocacy for victims attending the St Catharines hospital for medical care and/or Sexual Assault Evidence Kit collection (up to 7 day post assault) * Information, accompaniment and referrals to other agencies also available during police investigation and court proceedings

Volunteer Program: Contact office for more information

Public speakers available for community groups and high schools on various topics including: Sexual assault awareness and prevention * Date rape * Sexual harassment * Childhood sexual abuse prevention * Self defence

Ongoing education program: * Child Assault Prevention (CAP) Program for grades 1-6 * Youth Issues Prevention Program for grades 7-8 * Film, handouts and interactive discussions

Workshops available for professionals who come into contact with survivors of sexual assault and/or their families

Member agency of Support Services Network for Male Survivors in Ontario (west region)

https://www.niagarasexualassaultcentre.com

carsa@sexualassaultniagara.org

Office: 905-682-7258

Crisis: 905-682-4584

Crisis: 905-329-4011

Fax: 905-682-2114

Administration Mon-Fri 9 am-4:30 pm * Crisis Support Line and Sex Trafficking Crisis Line Mon-Sun 24 hours

OmbudService for Life and Health Insurance

Toronto, ON

Inquiries and complaints resolution for consumers of life and health insurance products and services including disability, employment health benefits, travel, and insurance investment products

online insurance finder tool
policy search assistance may be available in locating lost Canadian policies of deceased persons 3 months to 2 years following death -- call or visit website for details
consumer publications

Offices also in Montreal and Edmonton

https://olhi.ca/

Office: 1-888-295-8112

TTY: 1-800-855-0511

Mon-Fri 9 am-5 pm

Ombudsman Ontario

483 Bay St
10th Flr, South Tower Toronto, ON
M5G 2C9

COVID-19 -- Office currently closed to in-person service

Children and Youth Unit will respond to calls from children and youth in care

Confidential investigation of public complaints about Ontario government services that could not be resolved through regular complaints procedures

includes provincial ministries, Crown corporations, tribunals, agencies, boards and commissions
Ontario universities and school boards
child protection services (handled by the Children and Youth Unit -- see separate entry)
French language services (handled by the French Language Services Unit -- see separate entry)
municipalities (excluding matters handled by Ombudsman Toronto -- see separate entry)

Cannot deal with matters regarding federal government, courts or decisions of judges, lawyers, local police, politicians, doctors, hospitals, long-term care homes or the private sector

Operates as an office of the provincial legislature, independent of the government and political parties

https://www.ombudsman.on.ca

info@ombudsman.on.ca

Office: 416-586-3300

Fax: 1-866-863-2560

Toll Free: 1-800-263-1830

Fax: 416-586-3485

TTY: 1-866-411-4211

Mon-Fri 9 am-4:30 pm

Ontario Energy Board - Consumer Relations

2300 Yonge St
27th Fl Toronto, ON
M4P 1E4

Regulates, licenses, monitors and inspects energy industry participants including natural gas and electricity utilities

investigates potential violations and enforces regulations
regulates rates charged to customers and regulates rebates to consumers
online inquiry and complaint forms
online energy industry information and resources including lists of licensed gas marketers and electricity retailers, and bill calculators for electricity or natural gas usage
Help for Low Income consumers -- summary of programs, www.oeb.ca/rates-and-your-bill/help-low-income-consumers
consumer newsletters and brochures

Residential customers -- disconnection for non-payment is banned from November 15 to April 30 of the following year

electricity providers are required to reconnect customers without power before the start of the disconnection ban period and waive any charges due to reconnection, including Collection of Accounts service fees
for more details www.oeb.ca/newsroom/2017/ban-disconnection-homes-winter-customers-electricity-distributors-frequently-asked

Affordability Fund -- assists electricity customers who do not qualify for low-income conservation programs N.B. not accepting new applications

affordabilityfund.org

http://www.oeb.ca

publicinformation@oeb.ca

Office: 416-314-2455

Toll Free: 1-877-632-2727

Fax: 416-440-7656

TTY: 416-544-5190

Mon-Fri 8:30 am-5 pm

Ontario Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing - Ontario Landlord and Tenant Board

Ellen Fairclough Bldg; 119 King St W
6th Flr Hamilton, ON
L8P 4Y7

The role of the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) is to:

resolve disputes between landlords and tenants through mediation or adjudication
resolve eviction applications from co-ops
provide information to landlords and tenants about their rights and responsibilities under the Residential Tenancies Act (RTA)

The LTB's customer service officers process applications, schedule hearings, and provide information to the public about the Residential Tenancies Act. Customer service officers do not provide legal advice.

https://tribunalsontario.ca/ltb/

SO-ltb@ontario.ca

Toll Free: 1-888-332-3234

TTY: 1-800-855-0511

Mon-Fri 8:30 am-5 pm

Ontario Motor Vehicle Industry Council

65 Overlea Blvd
Suite 300 Toronto, ON
M4H 1P1

Administer and enforces Motor Vehicle Dealers Act (MVDA)

ensures registration of dealers and salespersons
inspects dealerships
receives consumer complaints
conducts investigations and prosecutions
administers the Motor Vehicle Dealers Compensation Fund
consumer outreach and education

http://www.omvic.ca

omvic@omvic.on.ca

Office: 416-226-4500

Toll Free: 1-800-943-6002

Fax: 416-226-3208

Mon-Fri 9 am-5 pm

Ontario. Members of Provincial Parliament - Provincial Constituency Office - Jeff Burch, Niagara Centre Riding - Port Colborne Office

92 Charlotte St
Port Colborne, ON
L3K 3E1

Advocacy and assistance with all Ontario provincial ministries and programs, for example, Ontario Works, ODSP, Health and Long Term Care * consultation on matters of local interest * congratulatory messages/scrolls for significant milestones * Powers of Attorney forms are available at this office.

Queen's Park Contact Information for all MPPs

Jeff Burch (NDP) MPP

https://www.jeffburchmpp.ca/

Office: 905-834-3629

Office: 416-325-7106

Wed 10 am-12:30 pm, 1:30 pm-4 pm

Ontario. Members of Provincial Parliament - Provincial Constituency Office - Jeff Burch, Niagara Centre Riding - Welland Office

60 King St
Unit 102 Welland, ON
L3B 6A4

Advocacy and assistance with all Ontario provincial ministries and programs, for example, Ontario Works, ODSP, Health and Long Term Care * consultation on matters of local interest * congratulatory messages/scrolls for significant milestones * Power of Attorney forms are available at this office

Queen's Park Contact Information for all MPPs

Jeff Burch (NDP) MPP

https://www.jeffburchmpp.ca/

Office: 905-732-6884

Office: 416-325-3990

Fax: Welland 905-732-9782 ; Queen's Park 416-325-3990

Tue-Fri 10 am-12:30 pm, 1:30 pm-4 pm

Ontario. Members of Provincial Parliament - Provincial Constituency Office - Jennie Stevens

209 Carlton St
B St Catharines, ON
L2R 1S1

https://www.jenniestevens.ca

jstevens-co@ndp.on.ca

Office: 905-935-0018

Fax: 905-935-0191

Office Mon-Thu 10 am-12:30 pm, 1:30 pm-4 pm

Ontario. Members of Provincial Parliament - Provincial Constituency Office - Sam Oosterhoff

Beamsville Town Centre; 4961 King St E
Unit M1, 2nd Fl Lincoln, ON
L0R 1B0

https://www.samoosterhoffmpp.ca

sam.oosterhoffco@pc.ola.org

Office: 905-563-1755

Toll Free: 1-800-665-3697

Fax: 905-563-1317

Mon-Fri 9:30 am-5 pm

Ontario. Members of Provincial Parliament - Provincial Constituency Office - Wayne Gates

6746 Morrison St
Unit 1 Niagara Falls, ON
L2E 6Z8

COVID-19: Do not walk-in. Call for service.

Advocacy and assistance with all Ontario provincial ministries and programs, for example, Ontario Works, ODSP, Health and Long Term Care * consultation on matters of local interest * congratulatory messages/scrolls for significant milestones * Powers of Attorney, Birth, Marriage and Death Certificate assistance and forms are available at this office.

Queen's Park Contact Information for all MPPs

Wayne Gates (NDP) MPP

https://www.waynegates.com

Office: 905-357-0681

Fax: 905-357-9456

Mon-Fri 10 am-12:30 pm, 1:30 pm-4 pm

Ontario. Members of Provincial Parliament - Provincial Constituency Office - Wayne Gates

Douglas Heights Senior Centre; 265 High St
Fort Erie, ON
L2A 3R4

https://www.waynegates.com

wgates.fe-co@ndp.on.ca

Office: 905-871-8868

Fax: 905-871-4717

Mon-Fri 1:30 pm-4 pm, by appointment

Ontario. Ministry of Government and Consumer Services. Consumer Protection Ontario

Toronto, ON

Public information and advice on consumer rights and responsibilities, complaints and consumer protection legislation

attempts to mediate complaints arising from regulated sectors of the marketplace, unfair business practices and from the sale of goods and services
investigation and enforcement of consumer protection legislation
public education and awareness programs, including online searchable business Consumer Beware List, https://www.consumerbewarelist.mgs.gov.on.ca/en/cbl/search

http://www.ontario.ca/consumer

consumer@ontario.ca

Office: 416-326-8800

Toll Free: 1-800-889-9768

TTY: 416-229-6086

Mon-Fri 8:30 am-5 pm, taped information available Mon-Sun 24 hours

Ontario. Ministry of the Attorney General, Court Services - Family Law Information Centre, St Catharines

Robert S K Welch Courthouse; 59 Church St
St Catharines, ON
L2R 7N8

A walk-in service where you can find legal and non-legal information about separation and divorce and related family law issues, family justice services, alternative forms of dispute resolution, local community resources and court processes. The program is run cooperatively between the Ministry of the Attorney General, Legal Aid Ontario and AXIS Family Mediation.

Individuals can speak with a court customer service representative, an advice lawyer (for those not in court that day), and an Information and Referral Coordinator (IRC). Each of which are available at designated times to help you understand your family court/family law related needs and to make further referrals to appropriate services.

Services are available remotely. Clients in need of Mediation, Family Law Information, Legal Advice and the Mandatory Information Program can leave a voicemail at 289-241-9099 and FLIC staff will return their call ASAP. Clients can also email info@axisfamilymediation.com.

https://www.axisfamilymediation.com

info@axisfamilymediation.com

Office: 289-241-9099

Toll Free: 1-888-988-2947 (1-888-988-AXIS)

Mon-Thu 9 am-12 noon, 1 pm-4 pm

Ontario. Ministry of the Attorney General, Court Services - Family Law Information Centre, Welland

Welland Courthouse; 102 East Main St
Welland, ON
L3B 3W6

A walk-in service where you can find legal and non-legal information about separation and divorce and related family law issues, family justice services, alternative forms of dispute resolution, local community resources and court processes. The program is run cooperatively between the Ministry of the Attorney General, Legal Aid Ontario and AXIS Family Mediation.

Individuals can speak with a court customer service representative, an advice lawyer (for those not in court that day), and an Information and Referral Coordinator (IRC). Each of which are available at designated times to help you understand your family court/family law related needs and to make further referrals to appropriate services.

Services are available remotely. Clients in need of Mediation, Family Law Information, Legal Advice and the Mandatory Information Program can leave a voicemail at 905-735-0010 ext. 299 and FLIC staff will return their call ASAP. Clients can also email info@axisfamilymediation.com.

https://www.axisfamilymediation.com

info@axisfamilymediation.com

Office: 905-735-0010 ext 299

Mon, Wed, Fri 9 am- 12 noon, 1 pm-4 pm

Ontario. Ministry of the Attorney General, Court Services - Victim / Witness Assistance Program, St Catharines

Robert S K Welch Courthouse; 59 Church St
St Catharines, ON
L2R 7N8

Provides information and assistance to support participation in and understanding of the criminal court process

services begin once police have laid charges and continue until the court case is over
Information about victims' rights, the criminal justice process and their specific case (e.g., court dates)
needs assessment and referrals to community agencies
crisis intervention, emotional support, victim advocacy
facilitates victim's input and liaises with Crown Attorneys, police, regarding bail, safety, resolution of charges, release conditions, publication bans, testimonial aids, trial preparation and court orientation
information and support on Victim Impact Statements, Statement on Restitution
facilitates access to court orders, such as bail conditions, probation orders, peace bonds
debriefing and follow-up support

Vulnerable Victims and Family Fund -- financial and court-based supports to enable victims of crime and families of homicide victims to attend court

travel arrangements and expenses
language interpretation
real-time captioning or other equipment for victims with disabilities

www.attorneygeneral.jus.gov.on.ca/english/ovss/programs.asp

Office: 905-685-2671

Fax: 905-685-2673

Mon-Fri 8:30 am-5 pm

Ontario. Ministry of the Attorney General, Court Services - Victim / Witness Assistance Program, Welland

Welland Courthouse; 102 East Main St
Welland, ON
L3B 3W6

Provides information and assistance to support participation in and understanding of the criminal court process

services begin once police have laid charges and continue until the court case is over
Information about victims' rights, the criminal justice process and their specific case (e.g., court dates)
needs assessment and referrals to community agencies
crisis intervention, emotional support, victim advocacy
facilitates victim's input and liaises with Crown Attorneys, police, regarding bail, safety, resolution of charges, release conditions, publication bans, testimonial aids, trial preparation and court orientation
information and support on Victim Impact Statements, Statement on Restitution
facilitates access to court orders, such as bail conditions, probation orders, peace bonds
debriefing and follow-up support

Vulnerable Victims and Family Fund -- financial and court-based supports to enable victims of crime and families of homicide victims to attend court

travel arrangements and expenses
language interpretation
real-time captioning or other equipment for victims with disabilities

www.attorneygeneral.jus.gov.on.ca/english/ovss/programs.asp

Office: 905-735-4326

Mon-Fri 8:30 am-5 pm

Ontario. Ministry of the Attorney General, Hamilton Services - Office of the Public Guardian and Trustee

Ellen Fairclough Bldg; 119 King St W
9th Flr Hamilton, ON
L8P 4Y7

The Office of the Public Guardian and Trustee (OPGT) is part of the Ontario Ministry of the Attorney General. It delivers a range of services that safeguard the legal, personal, and financial interests of certain private individuals and estates and protects charitable property in Ontario.

Services include:

conducting investigations of possible need for public guardianship
managing financial affairs and making decisions about the personal care of those under public guardianship
appointing private guardians of property
arranging legal representation in capacity proceedings
acting as litigation guardian or legal representative
administering the estates of deceased Ontario residents
protecting charitable property

www.attorneygeneral.jus.gov.on.ca/english/family/pgt

Office: 905-546-8300

Business Line: (905) 546-8300

Toll Free: 1-800-891-0502

Fax: 905-546-8301

TTY: 1-416-314-2687

Mon-Fri 8:30am-5pm

Pardons Canada - Information and Telephone Support Line

45 St Clair Ave W
Suite 901 Toronto, ON
M4V 1K9

A resource and telephone support line for individuals and organizations with concerns about the negative impacts of having a criminal record

assists individuals who may be unemployed, have immigration problems, are young offenders or intellectually challenged
offers individuals direct counselling about the removal of criminal records, legal information, referrals, and reference letters

https://www.pardons.org

info@pardons.org

Office : 416-929-6011

Toll Free: 1-877-929-6011

Fax: 416-929-3651

Mon-Fri 8:30 am-5 pm

Start Me Up Niagara - Homelessness Prevention

17 Gale Cres
St Catharines, ON
L2R 3K8

Individualized advocacy and support to maintain housing for those who have experienced chronic homelessness or at imminent risk of housing loss.

Assistance with landlord disputes and negotiations
Help accessing available community supports
Strong relations with landlords to provide affordable housing
Help accessing available community supports through partnerships (mental health and addictions)
One on on individualized support and case management (life stabilization and independence)

https://www.startmeupniagara.ca

info@startmeupniagara.ca

Office: 905-984-5310

Fax: 905-984-8949

Mon-Fri 9 am-12:30 noon, 1 pm-4 pm

Victim Services Niagara - Victim Crisis Assistance Ontario

Niagara Regional Police Services Headquarters, 5700 Valley Way
Niagara Falls, ON
L2E 1X8

On-site early intervention and crisis intervention * needs assessment * safety planning * referrals to community services and system navigation * enhanced support for vulnerable victims * assistance with applications to VQRP+

Victim Quick Response Program+ (VQRP+) -- assistance with emergency expenses related to specific crimes including home safety, meals, transportation, basic necessities, counselling, traditional Indigenous health services, cellular phones, vision care, dental care, aids for victims with disabilities, interpretation services, crime scene cleanup, and funeral expenses (homicide) * additional assistance for victims of human trafficking can include a storage locker, tattoo removal, and treatment at a recovery facility * no direct reimbursement to victims for support listed above * financial support also available for victims who sustained serious physical injuries during a crime and for parents of child homicide victims (under 25yrs) and spouses of homicide victims

https://www.victimservicesniagara.on.ca

info@victimservicesniagara.com

Office: No public telephone number

Crisis: 905-682-2626

Fax: 289-248-1034

Mon-Sun 24 hours * Text + Chat Line Mon-Sun 9 am-9 pm

Community Safety

Subscribe to our mailing list