The “Why” of Distress Centre
Our team at Distress Centre Calgary is passionate and committed to creating an inclusive environment built around protecting, caring for, and helping others. We take pride in being here to help people, whether they’re facing depression or having financial issues, and strive to protect those who are more vulnerable and less fortunate.
Whether you’re having relationship issues, need someone to talk to, are a victim of abuse, or are struggling with suicidal thoughts, we are here for you.
The services we provide are all a part of our “Why”—what gets us out of bed in the morning is being able to help the people of our community that are in need.
About Us at Distress Centre Calgary
Our team at Distress Centre Calgary (DCC) provides a variety of services, including 24-hour crisis support, professional counselling, youth peer support, and navigation and referrals through 211 and our programs at SORCe—all at no cost.
For over 50 years, Distress Centre has always been about helping people in need, and our mission is to provide compassionate, accessible crisis and navigation support that enhances the health, well-being and resiliency of individuals in distress.
We strive to instill a sense of belonging and ensure everyone is heard and has a place to turn to in times of crisis.
Service to others, excellence, volunteerism, integrity, collaboration, innovation, and leadership are the heart of Distress Centre, and we take pride in being here for our community.
We have 24 hour phone, text, chat.
24 Hour Crisis Support
We provide 24 hour crisis support by phone, text and chat to Calgary and Southern Alberta. Youth support is provided through our ConnecTeen youth program.
211
211 allows us to access an entire network of community, social, health and government services to better help Calgarians and extends to all of Alberta.
Crisis Counselling
Crisis counselling is a way for us to help with more complex issues, and our professional crisis counsellors provide free counselling for individuals, couples, and families.
Coordinated Entry
The Coordinated Entry team provides multiple programs and services at the location of SORCe. All aspects of the program use a housing-focused approach to support people experiencing or facing homelessness
144,663
connections in 2023
334
Volunteers
Countless
Lives Impacted
Some Stats to Explore
144,663 contacts in2023, 334 volunteers
54,038 crisis connections (chats, calls, texts) made, including 4,177 ConnecTeen contacts
In 2023, Distress Centre supported 1,439 emergency interventions, an increase of 23%
93.6% of surveyed users would contact Distress Centre again if in crisis
26,688 contact centre and remote hours volunteered in 2023
In 2023, Distress Centre had 2,012 total counselling contacts
Distress Centre’s coordinated entry team served 4,434 unique individuals and families, providing 14,513 unique services in 2023
Learn more about our impact in 2023 by viewing our Annual Report.
Upcoming Events
December 3
Giving Tuesday
This Giving Tuesday, we’re sharing stories of hope. Thanks to our volunteers and supporters, we’ve been there for those who needed support, no matter the reason. 💙 One of our [...]
December 31
DCC Stories of Hope: Year End Campaign
We encounter hundreds of stories every day—stories of your neighbors, colleagues, and loved ones finding their way through life’s toughest challenges. Throughout November and December, we’re sharing sharing stories of hope, to show the [...]Opportunities to Help
Our volunteer opportunities allow you to provide support in various ways, including over the phone and via chat, text, or email. We also provide extensive practical and ongoing training.
As Calgary’s only 24-hour crisis agency, we are often the first point of contact for those seeking help. Make a career out of making a difference!
Distress Centre is committed to furthering the field of social work, and we view practicum students as a great asset to our team. Practicum opportunities exist year-round within the Crisis Line Program and Counselling Program, along with other opportunities.
Check Out Our Blog
Explore what’s new in the community and important updates from Distress Centre.
DCC Stories of Hope: Alex and our crisis support service
Listen to Alex’s powerful story of finding hope through Distress Centre Calgary. Calling Distress Centre Calgary and being able to interact with the amazing and caring people in my lowest [...]Read More... from DCC Stories of Hope: Alex and our crisis support service
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David Kirby celebrates 20 years at Distress Centre Calgary
David Kirby, our Clinical Services Manager, has achieved a remarkable milestone – 20 years of service as a member of our staff at Distress Centre Calgary. But David’s journey at [...]Read More... from David Kirby celebrates 20 years at Distress Centre Calgary
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Stories of Hope for Giving Tuesday
This Giving Tuesday, we’re sharing stories of hope—how we’ve been there for those who needed support, no matter the reason. Thanks to our volunteers and supporters, we've been able to provide hope to countless individuals going through challenging times in their life. [...]Read More... from Stories of Hope for Giving Tuesday
READ
How to donate during the Canada Post strike
Due to the Canada Post strike, some of our mailings may be delayed, which could impact the vital funds we rely on during our annual giving campaign. We’ve been sharing [...]Read More... from How to donate during the Canada Post strike
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DCC Stories of Hope: Taylor and 211
Amid the chaos and uncertainty, Taylor* found comfort on the other end of the line. After being transferred from 911 to the 211 co-location team, Taylor shared their story with [...]Read More... from DCC Stories of Hope: Taylor and 211
READ
Donor Spotlight: Alberta Law Foundation
A $243,690 grant from Alberta Law Foundation supports Distress Centre Calgary's Justice System Initiative, helping Calgarians overcome critical legal barriers. [...]Read More... from Donor Spotlight: Alberta Law Foundation
READOur Impact Funders
we want you to know that your donation is currently supporting someone in crisis. thank you for your contributions.
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FIND US
Email: info@distresscentre.com24-Hour Crisis Line: 403-266-4357
Main Office: 403-266-1601
Youth Program Office: 403-264-8337
Calgary, AB T2R 1J5 | View Map
Charitable Registration Number:
107021024RR0001
In the spirit of respect, reciprocity and truth, Distress Centre Calgary would like to honour and acknowledge Moh’kinsstis, and the traditional Treaty 7 territory and oral practices of the Blackfoot confederacy: Siksika, Kainai, Piikani, as well as the Îyâxe Nakoda and Tsuut’ina nations. We acknowledge that this territory is home to the Métis Nation of Alberta, Region 3 within the historical Northwest Métis homeland. Finally, we acknowledge all Nations – Indigenous and non – who live, work and play on this land, and who honour and celebrate this territory.
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