Call 911 for immediate help for life-threatening medical, fire, or police emergencies.

______________________________________________________________

24/7 Crisis & Mental Health Support

SOAR Community Services - Crisis Phone Line
📞 (519) 759-7188 | 1-866-811-7188
24/7 support for mental health or situational crises.

988 Suicide Crisis Helpline

📞 Call or text 988
24/7 confidential support across Canada.

Kids Help Phone

📞 1-800-668-6868 | Text CONNECT to 686868

24/7 support for children, youth, and young adults. 

_____________________________________________________

In-Person Crisis Support

SOAR Mental Health Walk-In Clinic
📍 133 Elgin Street
🕑 Mon, Tues, & Wed, 11am–7 PM
No appointment needed.

Brantford General Hospital – Emergency Department
📍 200 Terrace Hill Street
Emergency medical and mental health care.
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Violence & Abuse Support

Nova Vita Crisis & Support Line

📞 (519) 752-HELP

24/7 support, safety planning, phone/text/chat.

Victim Services of Brant

Provides immediate, confidential support to individuals affected by crime or tragic circumstances. Victim Services offers crisis intervention, safety planning, emotional support, and help navigating community and justice-related services in Brantford and Brant County.
Victim Services of Brant – Making People Feel Safe and Secure 

_____________________________________________________

 
Medical Advice & Health Support (24/7) 

📞 Call 8-1-1 | Online chat available 

Free, confidential access to registered nurses and health professionals who can help you decide whether to seek urgent care, visit an emergency department, or manage symptoms at home. 

Home - Health811

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Provincial & Specialized Helplines

If you're looking for support tailored to your identity, situation, or caregiving role, these services are available across Ontario and Canada.

One Stop Talk (Ontario)

📞 1-855-416-8255

Immediate access to a free professional therapist for children, youth, and families across Ontario.

Good2Talk (Ontario)

📞 1-866-925-5454

💬 Text GOOD2TALKON to 686868

Free, confidential mental health support for post-secondary students in Ontario.

Hope for Wellness (Canada)

📞 1-855-242-3310

💬 Online chat available

Immediate mental health counselling and crisis support for Indigenous peoples across Canada, available in multiple Indigenous languages as well as English and French.

Black Youth Helpline (Canada)

📞 1-833-294-8650

Support and referrals for Black youth, families, and communities. Services available in French and other languages upon request.

Talk4Healing (Ontario)

📞 1-855-554-HEAL (4325)

Culturally grounded support for Indigenous women, by Indigenous women, available in many Indigenous languages as well as English and French.

Ontario Caregiver Helpline

📞 1-833-416-2273

Information and support for caregivers navigating programs, services, and resources across Ontario.

Trans Lifeline (Canada)

📞 1-877-330-6366

Peer support run by and for trans and questioning people. Confidential and non-judgmental.

LGBT YouthLine (Ontario)

📞 1-800-268-9688

💬 Text 647-694-4275

Peer support, resources, and referrals for 2SLGBTQ+ youth and young adults (29 and under) across Ontario. 

Margot's Place
Inclusive support programs for young parents (29 yrs & under) offering peer support, weekly groups, drop-ins, parenting activities, parent education, and help connecting with local services.
Margot's Place: Supportive Programs For Young Moms

The Parachute Program
A free, drop-in peer support group for parents with babies (0-12 months), offering a welcoming space to connect, share experiences, and find encouragement during the early months of parenthood.
The Parachute Program - Kids Can Fly

Hope Pregnancy & Family Support Centre
A local faith-based support center offering free, confidential support for individuals and families during pregnancy and early parenting, including education, practical help, and one-on-one support.  They do not provide or refer for abortion care.
Hope | Home 

EarlyON Child and Family Centres
Free drop-in programs for parents, caregivers, and children (birth to 6 yrs) offering play-based activities, early development support, and opportunities to connect with other families.
Event Details - City of Brantford  

Launchpad (Kids Can Fly)
A free early learning and support program for preschool-aged children and their caregivers, offering play-based activities, early development support, and opportunities to build routines, confidence, and connection before school entry.
The Launch Pad: Frequently Asked Questions - Kids Can Fly 

Child and Family Services of Grand Erie

This agency works with families to support the safety, health, and well-being of children and youth. They can also help families connect with community services and supports when additional assistance is needed.

Home - Child and Family Services of Grand Erie 

Taylor’s Rights

Taylor’s Rights provides education, resources, and information to help families and community members better understand child welfare processes and navigate related systems. 

Taylor the Turtle - Taylor's Rights 

La Leche League Canada – Brantford

A free peer support group for parents who are breastfeeding, chestfeeding, or planning to feed their babies human milk. Meetings offer a welcoming space to ask questions, share experiences, and connect with other parents. Support from trained Leaders is also available between meetings if needed.

Brantford | La Leche League Canada 

Contact Brant- Family Support and Service Navigation
The first place to contact for families needing help navigating community supports for children and youth with behavioural, developmental, and special needs, including autism and fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD).
Resources for Parents - Contact Brant - Children's Services Brantford  

Lansdowne Children’s Centre

Provides assessment, therapy, and specialized support services for children and youth with physical, developmental, and communication needs in Brantford and surrounding communities. Lansdowne works with families to help children reach their fullest potential through coordinated and family-centred care. 

Lansdowne Children's Centre for child development 

Why Not Youth Centre
A free, welcoming drop-in space for local youth to hang out, access support, activities, life skills coaching, and links to other community services in a safe, supervised environment.
Why Not Youth Centre | Why Not City Missions

Woodview in the Square
A safe, youth-friendly hub offering drop-in activities, games and optional drop-in counselling for ages 12-18.
Woodview in the Square | Youth Hub and Drop In

Brantford Public Library
A safe, welcoming space for children, youth and teens to spend time after school, access books and technology, attend free programs, and connect in a supervised, inclusive environment.
Brantford Public Library

City of Brantford – Youth Programs
A variety of supervised programs and recreational opportunities for youth ages 11–17, including drop-in spaces, activities, and community engagement programs such as the W Lounge. Many programs are low-cost, with some requiring only a $5 annual registration. Please visit the link for current program details, schedules, and registration information.
Youth Programs - City of Brantford 

Brantford Food & Meal Calendar (Monthly Schedule)
A regularly updated calendar showing where free meals, food bank services, and community food supports are offered throughout Brantford and area each month.
Event Details - City of Brantford 

City of Brantford – Find Affordable Housing

Information about affordable housing options in Brantford, including how to apply for rent-geared-to-income housing, housing waitlists, eligibility requirements, and available programs. This page connects individuals and families to local housing supports and application processes. 

Find Housing - City of Brantford 

211 Ontario

A free, confidential service that connects people to local community and social services across Ontario. Available 24/7 by phone, text, or chat, 211 helps individuals and families find support for housing, food, mental health, financial assistance, and more. 

211 Ontario 

Brantford-Brant Norfolk Ontario Health Team (BBNOHT)
A regional partnership that connects individuals and families to coordinated health and community services across Brantford, Brant County, Haldimand, and Norfolk. BBNOHT helps improve access to care and supports navigation within the local healthcare system.
Brantford-Brant Norfolk Ontario Health Team
Services :: Brantford Brant Norfolk Ontario Health Team 

Parents and Caregivers for Mental Health (CMHO Family Care Centre)
A mental health support hub with trusted information, peer support, and practical guides for parents and caregivers navigating children's mental health challenges.
Parents and Caregivers for Mental Health | PCMH 

Canadian Mental Health Association
Local mental health services offering supports like community programs, peer support, activity groups, housing help, and family support.
https://bhn.cmha.ca/cmha-programs-and-services/ 

Woodview Mental Health & Autism Services
Local programs providing mental health and autism supports for children, youth, families, and caregivers.
Woodview Mental Health and Autism Services | Inspiring Hope 

Sexual Assault Centre of Brant (SAC Brant)

Provides free, confidential, trauma-informed support for survivors of sexual violence. SAC Brant offers counselling, advocacy, and education services to cis women and people of marginalized genders, including trans women, Two-Spirit, and non-binary individuals. They also work to create social change through community education and collaboration.

Sexual Assault Centre of Brant 

Parents and Caregivers for Mental Health
A welcoming peer support group in Brantford where parents and caregivers can share experiences, feel less alone, and connect with others navigating children's mental
https://woodview.ca/brantford-mental-health/pcmh-groups/?utm_source=chatgpt.com

HOPE Brant
A local peer-run organization offering connection, group activities, and drop-in support for adults facing mental health challenges.
Helping Ourselves through Peer Support & Employment

Brantford Public Library
A community hub offering free programs, events, resources, and spaces for families of all ages, including story times, youth programs, technology access, and community connection.
Brantford Public Library 

The Messiness of Parenting Podcast
A local parenting podcast featuring parents and specialists from Brantford and area. Through honest conversations, practical tips, and real-life stories, this podcast explores the ups, downs, and everyday moments of raising children.

The Messiness of Parenting | Podcast on Spotify 

Before attending any event, please confirm the details directly with the organizer using the website or contact information provided. Dates, times, locationss, and availability may change, and some events require advance registration.

Ongoing Programs

Ongoing, six-week group (registration required)
Trauma-Informed Parenting Group
Nova Vita offers a six-week support group for parents and caregivers whose children have been impacted by abuse or violence in a past relationship. Participants can develop a deeper understanding of trauma and how it affects children while exploring topics such as empathy, co-regulation, recognizing trauma responses, and trauma-informed parenting strategies. Sessions combine information sharing, interactive activities, and group discussions in a supportive environment. Groups run throughout the year, and interested participants can contact Nova Vita for upcoming dates and registration details.
Learn more or register:
novavita.org/tip-group | 519-752-1005 ext. 221 | info@novavita.org

Ongoing (17-week program)

Caring Dads Group Program

Caring Dads is a 17-week group program for fathers and male caregivers who want to build safer, healthier, and more positive relationships with their children and their children’s mother. Participants reflect on their parenting, understand the impact of their actions, and develop practical skills to strengthen trust, emotional safety, and connection within their families.

Learn more or register:

519-750-3195 | info@novavita.org  

Every Monday, 9:30–11:00am
Notes & Beats
Notes & Beats is a free community music class offered by Grand River Community Health Centre for adults interested in music and music history. Led by music facilitator Joan Minnery, the program provides an opportunity to explore music, learn about its history, and connect with others who share an interest in music. Classes take place in Community Rooms A and B at 363 Colborne Street, Brantford.
Learn more or register:
519-754-0777 ext. 505 | bkidder@grchc.ca

Every Tuesday and Thursday, 10:00–11:00am and Friday, 11:00am–12:00pm
Dance Fitness with Joan Minnery
Dance Fitness is a fun, beginner-friendly exercise class offered by Grand River Community Health Centre. Led by Joan Minnery, the program combines line dancing, Latin dance styles, Zumba, and aerobic movements set to a variety of music. No previous dance experience is required, and everyone is welcome to participate. Classes take place in Community Rooms A and B at 363 Colborne Street, Brantford.
Learn more or register:
519-754-0777 ext. 473 | scookney@grchc.ca

Every Tuesday, 2:30–4:00pm
Sew What?
Sew What? is a free, drop-in sewing program offered by Grand River Community Health Centre. Participants can learn sewing machine basics, practise mending, and create their own simple projects. All supplies are provided, and everyone is welcome, regardless of sewing experience. Sessions take place at 363 Colborne Street, Brantford.
Learn more:
www.grandriverchc.ca | 519-754-0777 ext. 223 | gord@grchc.ca

Every Tuesday, 6:00–7:30pm (online)
YODA Caregiver Group: Youth Overcoming Depression & Anxiety
YODA is an online caregiver support group offered by Woodview Mental Health and Autism Services for parents and caregivers of children in Grades 6, 7, and 8 experiencing anxiety and/or depression. Participants can learn about youth mental health, better understand their child's needs, explore healthy coping strategies, and develop practical ways to support their child at home. Sessions take place over Zoom, and self-referrals are welcome.
Learn more or register:
Woodview YODA Programs | 289-266-0036

Every Tuesday, 5:30–6:45pm
Gentle Yoga
Gentle Yoga is a free, beginner-friendly class offered by Grand River Community Health Centre. Participants are guided through gentle movements and practices designed to support physical and mental well-being, relaxation, and connection between mind and body. Classes take place in Community Rooms A and B at 363 Colborne Street, Brantford.
Learn more or register:
519-754-0777 ext. 473 | scookney@grchc.ca

Every Wednesday and Friday, 6:00–9:00pm
Drop-In Pickleball
The Holmedale Neighbourhood Association invites community members to enjoy an evening of pickleball at Dufferin Park in Brantford. Whether you're an experienced player or interested in trying pickleball for the first time, everyone is welcome to join in, get active, and connect with others in the community. This is a drop-in activity, so no registration is required.
Learn more:
hnapickleball@gmail.com

Every Wednesday, 11:00am–12:00pm and Friday, 1:00–2:00pm
Easy Fit Exercise Classes
Easy Fit is a low- to moderate-intensity exercise class offered by Grand River Community Health Centre, designed to improve posture, balance, strength, and endurance. Classes are open to all community members, with modifications available for different abilities, including seated options. Sessions take place in Community Rooms A and B at 363 Colborne Street, Brantford.
Learn more or register:
519-754-0777 ext. 473 | scookney@grchc.ca

Every Wednesday, 1:30–3:00pm
Men in Action
Men in Action is a drop-in group offered by Grand River Community Health Centre, providing a space for men to connect, share experiences, and learn from one another. Participants can join conversations, exchange perspectives, and build connections with others in a welcoming group setting. Sessions take place in Community Room A at 363 Colborne Street, Brantford.
Learn more:
519-754-0777 ext. 505 | bkidder@grchc.ca

Every Thursday, 11:00am–12:30pm
Learn to Knit
Learn to Knit is a welcoming knitting program offered by Grand River Community Health Centre for people of all experience levels. Whether you're picking up knitting needles for the first time or already have experience, participants can practise their skills, work on projects, and connect with others. All materials are provided. Sessions take place at 363 Colborne Street, Brantford.
Learn more or register:
519-754-0777 ext. 223 | gord@grchc.ca

Every Friday, 2:00–3:00pm
Sit Fit Exercise Classes
Sit Fit is a chair-based exercise class offered by Grand River Community Health Centre, designed to help participants improve posture, strength, and mobility through seated movements. The program provides an accessible way to stay active for people who prefer or require chair-based exercise. Classes take place in Community Rooms A and B at 363 Colborne Street, Brantford.
Learn more or register:
519-754-0777 ext. 473 | scookney@grchc.ca
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October 13, 5:00–7:00pm
Stirring Up Generations Cooking Class
Stirring Up Generations is a free cooking program offered by Grand River Community Health Centre, bringing together youth under 25 and older adults aged 55+ to learn cooking skills, share experiences, and build connections across generations. Participants can explore different cooking activities and enjoy creating meals together. Sessions take place at 363 Colborne Street, Brantford.
Learn more or register:
519-754-0777 ext. 473 | scookney@grchc.ca

October 14, 10:00–11:30am

BRC CORE Workshop: Taxes with CRA

Small business owners can join this free online seminar presented by the BRC in partnership with the Canada Revenue Agency. The session covers common tax errors, books and recordkeeping, tips and best practices, HST information, and CRA resources that can help small businesses.

Learn more or register:

Register for Taxes with CRA | 519-756-4269

October 15, 5:30–7:30pm
Jewelry Making Drop-In
Get creative at this relaxed, social jewelry-making drop-in for adults ages 18 and older. Participants can design and create their own handmade jewelry, with basic instruction and a variety of materials provided for experimenting with different styles and techniques. All skill levels are welcome. The event takes place at 173 Colborne Street, Brantford.
Learn more:
519-756-2220 ext. 3321

October 17, 12:00–4:00pm
Community Donation Drive
TTIH is hosting its Second Annual Community Donation Drive, bringing community members together to give and receive essential items at no cost. Residents are invited to donate new or gently used items, while individuals and families can stop by to pick up items they need, free of charge. The event promotes generosity, inclusion, and community support while helping connect families with practical resources. It takes place at Harmony Square, 89 Dalhousie Street, Brantford.
Learn more: https://ttih.org/. 

October 19 and 20, 1:00–3:00pm; October 21, 9:30–11:30am and 1:00–3:00pm
Learn to Paint
Learn to Paint is a beginner-friendly art program offered by Grand River Community Health Centre. Participants can explore painting in a welcoming, supportive environment, with all materials provided. No previous painting experience is necessary. Sessions take place at 363 Colborne Street, Brantford.
Learn more or register:
519-750-4932 | dcrotta@grchc.ca

October 21, 10:00–11:30am
BRC CORE Workshops: Financial Forecasting
Entrepreneurs and small business owners can join this free online workshop to better understand the numbers behind running a business. Participants will learn how to calculate start-up and operating costs, develop budgets and cash flow projections, identify break-even points, price products and services profitably, and understand how operational decisions can affect their bottom line.
Learn more or register:
Register for Financial Forecasting | 519-756-4269 

October 21, 6:00–7:45pm
Horror Movie Night for Teens: Scream
Teens ages 13–17 are invited to a spooky movie night featuring Wes Craven's Scream (1996). Participants can hang out with friends, enjoy candy, and watch this classic horror film together. This is a drop-in event, so no registration is required. The event takes place at 173 Colborne Street, Brantford.
Learn more:
519-756-2220 ext. 3353

October 22, 6:00pm
Halloween Movie Night
Join the Brantford Sexual Assault Centre for a Halloween-themed movie night for youth ages 14–19. Participants can enjoy a spooky movie, snacks, and a fun evening together. Bring a blanket to get comfortable! The event takes place at 134 King George Road, Brantford.
Learn more:
Instagram: @sac_brant

October 23, November 6 and 27, and December 11, 5:30–7:30pm
Adult Board Game Night
Adult Board Game Night is a free social event for adults ages 18 and older at Doug Snooks Eagle Place Community Centre. Participants can enjoy a variety of board games, including Ticket to Ride, Catan, and more, or bring their own favourites to share. Kids Night Out for children ages 4–10 runs at the same time, offering a separate activity for younger family members. Sessions take place at 333 Erie Avenue, Brantford.
Learn more:
Instagram: @eagleplacecommunity

October 24, 2:00–3:00pm
No Mess Pumpkin Decorating
Children ages 6–12 can get creative with a fun, mess-free pumpkin decorating activity. Participants can decorate their own pumpkins using craft supplies, with no paint required. This drop-in program encourages creativity and imagination without the mess of traditional pumpkin decorating. Supplies are available while quantities last. The event takes place at 10 Strickland Avenue, Brantford.
Learn more:
519-756-2220 ext. 3341

October 25, 3:00pm
Brantford Memorial Concert Band: Fall Concert
The Brantford School of Instrumental Music presents the Brantford Memorial Concert Band's first performance of the 2026–2027 season. Community members are invited to enjoy an afternoon of live instrumental music at the Best Western Hotel, 19 Holiday Drive, Brantford. Admission is free, with donations gratefully accepted at the door. Official tax receipts will be mailed for donations over $20.
Learn more:
519-755-2463

October 26–31, during library hours
Ghost Scavenger Hunt
Friendly ghosts have taken over the St. Paul Branch of the Brantford Public Library, and visitors are invited to find them all! Children and families can explore the library, search for hidden ghosts, and earn a treat when they complete the hunt. This self-directed, drop-in activity is open to all ages and takes place at 441 St. Paul Avenue, Brantford.
Learn more:
519-756-2220 ext. 3353

October 26, 6:00–7:00pm
Halloween Slime Party
Children ages 6–12 are invited to a spooky, hands-on slime-making party at the Brantford Public Library. Participants can experiment with different slime recipes and creepy ingredients to create their own slimy masterpieces to take home. Halloween costumes are encouraged, and a few treats will be available. This is a drop-in program taking place at 173 Colborne Street, Brantford.
Learn more:
519-756-2220 ext. 3353

November 6, 6:00–9:00pm
Free Youth Movie Night: Cookie Queens
Youth are invited to a free movie night hosted by the County of Brant in partnership with Girl Guides of Canada. Enjoy a screening of the award-winning documentary Cookie Queens, connect with the Brant Public Library, meet members of the Brant OPP, and learn about local programs, safety resources, and opportunities to get involved in the community. Bring your friends for an evening of movies and connection at Lafarge Hall in the Brant Sports Complex, 944 Powerline Road, Paris.
Learn more:
brant.ca/youth | Instagram: @brantcommunity

November 9 and 16, 5:00–7:00pm
The Art of Welcoming Communities: Venezuela
Explore Venezuelan culture through two free community sessions offered by Grand River Community Health Centre. The November 9 session focuses on creative arts, while November 16 features music and dance. Participants can learn about different traditions, connect with neighbours, and celebrate cultural diversity. No previous experience is required. Guided children's activities are available, with parents responsible for supervision. Sessions take place at 363 Colborne Street, Brantford.
Learn more or register:
Register for The Art of Welcoming Communities | agul@grchc.ca

November 28, 7:00–9:00pm
Santa Claus Parade After Party
Families are invited to continue the holiday celebrations at Harmony Square following Brantford's Santa Claus Parade. This free, all-ages event features photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus, hot chocolate from Tim Hortons, carnival treats, face painting, and a special live musical performance followed by a meet and greet with The Glass Slipper Company. Visitors can also meet Doug "The Great" Hunt, a Guinness World Record-holding stilt walker. Some treats and activities are available while supplies last. The celebration takes place at Harmony Square, 89 Dalhousie Street, Brantford.
Learn more:
Harmony Square Events Calendar

December 7 and 14, 5:00–7:00pm
The Art of Welcoming Communities: Jamaica
Celebrate Jamaican culture through free arts, music, and dance sessions hosted by Grand River Community Health Centre. Participants can explore creative activities on December 7 and enjoy a music and dance experience on December 14 while connecting with others in the community. All experience levels are welcome, and guided children's activities are available, with parents responsible for supervision. Sessions take place at 363 Colborne Street, Brantford.
Learn more or register:
Register for The Art of Welcoming Communities | agul@grchc.ca

January 11 and 18, 5:00–7:00pm
The Art of Welcoming Communities: Philippines
Discover Filipino culture through two free community sessions offered by Grand River Community Health Centre. The January 11 session features creative arts, followed by music and dance on January 18. Participants can learn about cultural traditions, meet neighbours, and enjoy shared creative experiences. No previous experience is necessary. Guided children's activities are available, with parents responsible for supervision. Sessions take place at 363 Colborne Street, Brantford.
Learn more or register:
Register for The Art of Welcoming Communities | agul@grchc.ca