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 pm-5 pm

Bethlehem Housing and Support Services - Violence Against Women Services

111 Church St
St Catharines, ON
L2R 3C9

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

Office: 905-641-1660 ext 228

Fax: 905-684-1666

Mon-Thu 8:30 am-4:30 pm, Fri 8:30 am-12 noon

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
Safety planning
Transitional and housing support
Public education program
Referrals

Family Court Support Worker Program -- Facilitates a victim's understanding of and passage through the family court system. Support provided includes:

information on the family court process
assistance in preparing for family court proceedings (documenting history of abuse, accessing Legal Aid)
debriefing with clients following family court appearances
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://www.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/ShelterServices Mon-Sun 24 hours

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

810 East Main St
Welland, ON
L3B 3Y4

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.

Support Services for Male Survivors of Sexual Abuse

Offers support services and short-term counselling to help survivors deal with the impact of abuse and to develop improved coping strategies

Partner agency of Support Services for Male Survivors of Sexual Abuse (West Region)

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, housing law, refugee and immigration law, employment law, family law, domestic and elder abuse, debt and consumer rights and collection agencies, health and disability, criminal law and wills and powers of attorneys

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
ESL resources for teachers

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 - Homelessness Prevention Services

129 Church St
St Catharines, ON
L2R 3E2

Eviction Prevention and Homelessness Prevention Program
Identify and work closely with those at risk of homelessness due to landlord eviction or other types of housing loss
Referrals to legal support, income supports and other programs
Support solutions to tenancy issues
Assistance with discharge from institutions
ID Clinic for vulnerable people without a permanent address
Referrals to other resources, programs and services in the community
Engage with landlords and help mediate
Rapid rehousing for those who've lost housing in the last 30 days
Help finding safe alternatives to shelter
Assistance with the Ontario Electricity Support Program (OESP) application

https://www.communitycarestca.ca

housing@communitycarestca.ca

Office: 905-984-8955 ext 214

Fax: 905-984-8838

Mon-Fri 9 am- 12 noon, 1 pm-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.

For more information on the educational opportunities and community partners, contact Administrative Coordinator Brooklyn Mercer by email brooklyn@niagaratips.com or call 905-324-8522.

https://www.crimestoppersniagara.ca

Office: 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 is for individuals who have been abusive to their partners and are committed to change. Individuals are ordered by the court to attend the program in response to a criminal charge involving domestic violence.

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

https://www.fsrao.ca/

contactcentre@fsrao.ca

Office: 416-250-7250

Toll Free TTY: 1-800-387-0584

Toll Free: 1-800-668-0128

TTY: 416-590-7108

Mon-Fri 8 am-5 pm

Gillian's Place

15 Gibson Place
St Catharines, ON
L2R 0A3

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

Services include:

emergency shelter
24/7 support line (call/text)
compassionate counselling
safety planning
legal advice and support
child and youth programming
violence prevention programs and education
second-stage housing
transitional housing and support
mental health and addictions support

Family Court Support Worker Program -- Facilitates a victim's understanding of and passage through the family court system. Support provided includes:

information on the family court process
assistance in preparing for family court proceedings (documenting history of abuse, accessing Legal Aid)
debriefing with clients following family court appearances
referral to specialized services and supports in the community
safety planning
court accompaniment to proceedings when appropriate

Individuals and families 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

Office : 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 1900 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

oncic@ibc.ca

Office: 416-362-2031

Crisis: 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

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

Crisis: 416-947-5255

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

Legal help in family, criminal, immigration and mental health matters to persons with low-income

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

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

TTY Toll Free: 1-866-641-8867

Toll Free: 1-800-668-8258

Fax: 416-979-8669

TTY: 416-598-8867

Mon-Fri 8 am-5 pm

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

60 King St
Fort Erie, ON
L2A 0G6

A telephone referral service for people to call to help connect an at-risk older adult with services to help them stay safe and independent in their home. Older adults are referred to partnering organizations that can best meet their needs. Services are provided with the consent of the older adult. Information is kept confidential and callers may remain anonymous.

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

Office: 905-684-0968

Administration: 905-984-2621

Seniors Community Programs: 905-980-6000 ext 3865

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

Can give legal information on:

Abuse and Family Violence
Criminal Law
Family Law
Getting Help from Lawyers and Paralegals

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

https://www.niagaracommunitylegalclinic.com

Office: 905-682-6635

Fax: 905-732-6133

Mon-Thu 8:30 am-12 noon, 1 pm-4 pm * Fri 8:30 am-12 noon by appointment

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

Can give legal information on:

Abuse and Family Violence
Criminal Law
Family Law
Getting Help from Lawyers and Paralegals

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

https://www.niagaracommunitylegalclinic.com

Office: 905-682-6635

Fax: 905-732-6133

Mon-Thu 8:30 am-12 noon, 1 pm-4 pm * Fri 8:30 am-12 noon by appointment

Niagara Health - Sexual Assault / Domestic Violence Treatment Program

1200 Fourth Ave
St Catharines, ON
L2S 0A9

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 or urgent care centre in the Niagara Region. The on-call Sexual Assault/Domestic Violence nurse will be contacted.

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.

MedicAlert Connect Protect

Collaboration between MedicAlert and the Niagara Regional Police Service to ensure police officers have direct 24/7 access to important information about people who have a tendency to wander, including those living with autism, Alzheimer's, dementia or other cognitive brain injuries
Gives police officers 24-hour access to a registered subscriber's photo, identifying information, past wandering history, triggers, de-escalation techniques and other information through the MedicAlert database

https://www.niagarapolice.ca

niagarapolice@niagarapolice.ca

Office: 905-688-4111 ext 1022200

Crisis: 9-1-1

Office: 905-871-2300

Office: 905-945-2211

Office: 905-735-7811

Front Desk and Emergency Service Mon-Sun 24 hours
Records Customer Service Desk Mon-Fri 8 am-4 pm

Niagara Regional Police Service

650 Gilmore Rd
Fort Erie, ON
L2A 5M4

MedicAlert Connect Protect

Collaboration between MedicAlert and the Niagara Regional Police Service to ensure police officers have direct 24/7 access to important information about people who have a tendency to wander, including those living with autism, Alzheimer's, dementia or other cognitive brain injuries
Gives police officers 24-hour access to a registered subscriber's photo, identifying information, past wandering history, triggers, de-escalation techniques and other information through the MedicAlert database

https://www.niagarapolice.ca

niagarapolice@niagarapolice.ca

Office: 905-871-2300 ext 1022300

Crisis: 9-1-1

Office: 905-871-2300

Office: 905-945-2211

Office: 905-735-7811

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

MedicAlert Connect Protect

Collaboration between MedicAlert and the Niagara Regional Police Service to ensure police officers have direct 24/7 access to important information about people who have a tendency to wander, including those living with autism, Alzheimer's, dementia or other cognitive brain injuries
Gives police officers 24-hour access to a registered subscriber's photo, identifying information, past wandering history, triggers, de-escalation techniques and other information through the MedicAlert database

https://www.niagarapolice.ca

niagarapolice@niagarapolice.ca

Office: 905-945-2211 ext 1025400

Crisis: 9-1-1

Office: 905-871-2300

Office: 905-945-2211

Office: 905-735-7811

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

Niagara Regional Police Service

198 Welland Ave
St Catharines, ON
L2R 2P3

MedicAlert Connect Protect

Collaboration between MedicAlert and the Niagara Regional Police Service to ensure police officers have direct 24/7 access to important information about people who have a tendency to wander, including those living with autism, Alzheimer's, dementia or other cognitive brain injuries
Gives police officers 24-hour access to a registered subscriber's photo, identifying information, past wandering history, triggers, de-escalation techniques and other information through the MedicAlert database

https://www.niagarapolice.ca

niagarapolice@niagarapolice.ca

Office: 905-688-4111 ext 1024233

Crisis: 9-1-1

Office: 905-871-2300

Office: 905-945-2211

Office: 905-735-7811

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

Niagara Regional Police Service

501 Fielden Ave
Port Colborne, ON
L3K 4T9

As of Feb 18th, 2025, the 6 District - Port Colborne/Wainfleet Station will be closed to the public while renovations are being completed in the building. The closure is anticipated to last 60 days. Police Checks will still be available through the other districts and online.

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.

MedicAlert Connect Protect

Collaboration between MedicAlert and the Niagara Regional Police Service to ensure police officers have direct 24/7 access to important information about people who have a tendency to wander, including those living with autism, Alzheimer's, dementia or other cognitive brain injuries
Gives police officers 24-hour access to a registered subscriber's photo, identifying information, past wandering history, triggers, de-escalation techniques and other information through the MedicAlert database

https://www.niagarapolice.ca

niagarapolice@niagarapolice.ca

Office: 905-735-7811 ext 1023200

Crisis: 9-1-1

Office: 905-871-2300

Office: 905-945-2211

Office: 905-735-7811

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

Niagara Regional Police Service

5 Lincoln St W
Welland, ON
L3C 5H9

MedicAlert Connect Protect

Collaboration between MedicAlert and the Niagara Regional Police Service to ensure police officers have direct 24/7 access to important information about people who have a tendency to wander, including those living with autism, Alzheimer's, dementia or other cognitive brain injuries
Gives police officers 24-hour access to a registered subscriber's photo, identifying information, past wandering history, triggers, de-escalation techniques and other information through the MedicAlert database

https://www.niagarapolice.ca

niagarapolice@niagarapolice.ca

Office: 905-735-7811 ext 1023300

Crisis: 9-1-1

Office: 905-871-2300

Office: 905-945-2211

Office: 905-735-7811

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

Crisis intervention and culturally sensitive counselling, supports and referrals

a 24 hour telephone crisis line
individual counselling and support groups
legal support, advocacy, information, and referrals
court support, accompaniment and advocacy program
information on alternatives to legal justice system
public education and training to end gender based violence in our community
all services confidential
Trans/ gender diverse positive environment

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, and Welland.

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 12 days 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 defense * Sex Trafficking Awareness Programs

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

Support Services for Male Survivors of Sexual Abuse

Offers support services and short-term counselling to help survivors deal with the impact of abuse and to develop improved coping strategies

Partner agency of Support Services for Male Survivors of Sexual Abuse (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

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 Information and Protection

2300 Yonge St
27th Floor 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
assistance for low income consumers: summary of programs
consumer newsletters and brochures

Ontario Electricity Support Program -- see separate entry

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

https://www.oeb.ca

publicinformation@oeb.ca

Office: 416-314-2455

Office: 1-877-632-2727

Toll Free TTY: 1-844-621-9977

Fax: 416-440-7656

TTY: 416-544-5190

Mon-Fri 8:30 am-5 pm

Ontario Energy Board - Ontario Electricity Support Program

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

Monthly credit reduction to the electricity bill of eligible households

credit amount is determined by the number of household members and the combined household after-tax income
households with Indigenous members, electric heating, or electricity intensive medical devices may receive a higher credit
two years of support is available to most applicants

https://www.ontarioelectricitysupport.ca/

help@ontarioelectricitysupport.ca

Office: 1-855-831-8151

TTY: 1-800-855-1155

Mon-Fri 8:30 am-5 pm

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

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/

LTB@ontario.ca

Toll Free: 1-888-332-3234

TTY: 1-800-855-0511

Contact Centre: 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

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/

JBurch-CO@ndp.on.ca

Office: 905-732-6884

Office: 416-325-3990

By appointment

Ontario. Members of Provincial Parliament - Provincial Constituency Office - Jeff Burch

60 King St
Unit 102 Welland, ON
L3B 6A4

https://www.jeffburchmpp.ca/

JBurch-CO@ndp.on.ca

Office: 905-732-6884

Office: 416-325-3990

By appointment

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-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 am-5 pm

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

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

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

wgates-co@ndp.on.ca

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

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

wgates.fe-co@ndp.on.ca

Office: 905-871-8868

Fax: 905-871-4717

Mon-Thu 1:30 pm-4 pm

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

https://www.ontario.ca/page/consumer-protection-ontario

consumer@ontario.ca

Office: 416-326-8800

Toll Free TTY: 1-877-666-6545

Toll Free: 1-800-889-9768

TTY: 416-229-6086

Mon-Fri 8:30 am-5 pm

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

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. Services include:

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 (VVFF) -- Helps support victims of violent crime, families of homicide victims and families of motor vehicle fatalities participate more fully in the criminal court process by providing financial assistance and court-based supports for:

travel to attend key court dates
language interpretation services
special accommodations for victims with disabilities, such as real-time captioning
basic necessities for victims of human trafficking or gun and gang violence while attending for court

https://www.ontario.ca/page/victimwitness-assistance-program

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

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

travel to attend key court dates
language interpretation services
special accommodations for victims with disabilities, such as real-time captioning
basic necessities for victims of human trafficking or gun and gang violence while attending for court

https://www.ontario.ca/page/victimwitness-assistance-program

Office: 905-735-4326

Office: 905-685-2671

Mon-Fri 8:30 am-4:30 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

Toronto, ON

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-6 pm EST

Victim Services Niagara - Victim Crisis Assistance Ontario

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

Victim Quick Response Program+ (VQRP+) - program of last resort where no other available private or public resource is available

Victim Crisis Assistance Ontario - On-site early intervention and crisis intervention

needs assessment
safety planning
referrals to community services
enhanced support for vulnerable victims
assistance with applications to VQRP+

Victim Quick Response Program+ (VQRP+) -- assistance with emergency expenses related to the eligible incident, may include home safety, accommodation, meals, transportation, basic necessities, dependent care costs, counselling, traditional Indigenous health services, cellular phones, vision care, dental care, aids for victims with disabilities, interpretation services, crime scene cleanup, government/medical documents and funeral expenses

Additional assistance for victims of human trafficking includes storage locker, tattoo removal and treatment at a recovery facility
No direct reimbursements are made to victims for the supports listed above
Financial support is also available for victims who sustained serious physical injuries during a crime and for parents of homicide victims and spouses of homicide victims

https://www.victimservicesniagara.on.ca

info@victimservicesniagara.com

Office: 905-688-4111 ext 5084

Crisis: 905-682-2626

Fax: 289-248-1034

Mon-Sun 24 hours

Community Safety

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