Free, Confidential, 24/7 Support
Contact 211 to gain access to a broad network of community, social, health, and government services. Your call, text, or chat will be answered by a professional 211 community resource specialist who is trained to assess your needs and refer you to the appropriate service(s).
211 services are available across Alberta and can help in over 170 languages over the phone. Ways to contact 211 include:
- Call 2-1-1
- Text INFO to 211
- Chat with 211
- Search for programs and services
If you’re experiencing an emergency, please call 911. Learn more about 211 Alberta by visiting the 211 website.
When Should You Contact 211?
211 services can help you navigate different areas of need, including:
- If you need food, shelter, and/or transportation
- If you need financial support to help pay a bill, rent, and/or damage deposit
- If you need to find mental support
- If you need information on government programs and phone numbers
- If you don’t know where to go for legal support
- If you want to volunteer for an organization
- If you want to make a donation of furniture and/or clothing
- If you are concerned about a friend or family member
- If you are looking for services for a client
211 provides access to several helpful resources and services.
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: 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
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Veterans and Mental Health
As Remembrance Day approaches, we honour the courage and sacrifices of those who have served. But beyond the ceremonies and moments of silence, it’s important to recognize the ongoing mental [...]Read More... from Veterans and Mental Health
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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
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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
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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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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