At times like this, we lean on each other. Yet, we’re forced to do so virtually to control the spread of the COVID-19 virus. It can be frightening, stressful, isolating and lonely.  That’s why the team at Crime Prevention Ottawa is sharing the resources you need to get support and get you through this difficult time.

Information about COVID-19 in Ottawa

Ottawa Public Health is your best resource for information on the virus’ spread in the city, as well as how to keep your family safe.

The City of Ottawa’s Human Needs Task Force

A Human Needs Task Force has been implemented as part of the City’s Emergency Management Plan and emergency response to COVID-19 to ensure that we are responsive to the emerging needs of the community. Check out their page for support and assistance.

Mental health and crisis counselling support

Many of you are dealing with job uncertainty and concerns about your finances or feeding your families. You may be suffering from increased anxiety, depression or feelings of helplessness. You are not alone. If you need support, contact:

The Canadian Association for Mental Health also offers some great tips on coping with stress and anxiety about COVID-19. Their fact sheet on talking to children about COVID-19 is a great resource for families.

Services for domestic violence, sexual violence and child abuse

When people are isolated at home, there is a greater risk of domestic violence, sexual violence and child abuse. If you or someone you know is at risk or dealing with abuse, the following resources will help:

  • Helpline for abused women: (613) 745-4818
  • Assaulted Women’s Helpline: 1-866-863-0511
  • FEMAIDE for francophone women: 1-877-FEM-AIDE/1-877-336-2433
  • Minwaashin Lodge, Aboriginal Women’s Support Centre: (613) 789-1141
  • Ottawa Rape Crisis Centre: (613) 562-2333 or TTY (613) 562-3860
  • Sexual Assault Support Centre: (613) 234-2266 or TTY (613) 725-1657
  • Children’s Aid Society of Ottawa-Carleton, Child Protection: (613) 747-7800
  • Ottawa Police Sexual Assault and Child Abuse Section (613) 236-1222, ext. 5944

Practical help for food and basic needs

We are coming to the end of the month. If you are running out of food or you’re in crisis, there is help:

  • Call 2-1-1 for referrals to a full range of community, social, health and government services.
  • Contact your local Community Health or Resource Centre.  To find the centre nearest, visit CoalitionOttawa.ca.

We’re in this together

The team at Crime Prevention Ottawa is here for you during this difficult time. We are safely working from our homes. If you need to reach us, you can contact us via email at cpo@ottawa.ca or join us on social media: Facebook and Twitter. Watch our Facebook page for our next #CPOcoffeebreak live online. It’s a great opportunity to connect with us and chat about community concerns and good news stories.

Stay safe and stay healthy!