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
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: Maria and our crisis line
Maria*, a concerned mother, called Distress Centre’s crisis line, her voice trembling with fear. Her 7-year-old son had experienced trauma, leaving her family feeling lost. As a result, she was [...]Read More... from DCC Stories of Hope: Maria and our crisis line
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DCC Stories of Hope: Jack and the Hub
This story is about a man named Jack* who had fallen on hard times. Jack was a rough sleeper, struggling to navigate the complexities of obtaining Income Support. Despite many [...]Read More... from DCC Stories of Hope: Jack and the Hub
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DCC’s Housing and Communications Hub: An Essential Service
Did you know about our Housing and Communications Hub? It’s a space where Calgary’s most vulnerable can access technology and assistance to support their housing, health, and wellness goals. Many facing [...]Read More... from DCC’s Housing and Communications Hub: An Essential Service
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World Suicide Prevention Day 2024
As we mark World Suicide Prevention Day on September 10th, Christine, one of the responders on the 9-8-8 Suicide Crisis Helpline, had this to say: “If you or your loved [...]Read More... from World Suicide Prevention Day 2024
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Volunteer Spotlight: Jiao
Meet Jiao, one of our ConnecTeen volunteers! Jiao began volunteering during the pandemic, seeking a meaningful way to use her free time and make an impact on her community. We [...]Read More... from Volunteer Spotlight: Jiao
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Wildfire Season and Mental Health: How to Cope
Wildfire season is in full force here in Western Canada and is impacting the lives of countless Canadians. For those who have been displaced by wildfires, you are likely focused [...]Read More... from Wildfire Season and Mental Health: How to Cope
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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