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

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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. 

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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 click the link provided for full details, including location information and registration requirements. Some events require advance registration.

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

The Brantford Poppy Project Workshops
Community members of all ages and skill levels are invited to take part in free drop-in poppy-making workshops across Brantford. Participants can learn to create handmade poppies while connecting with others and contributing to a large community remembrance art installation honouring veterans and military families. Supplies, guidance, and beginner-friendly support are provided at each session.
Workshop Dates:
• September 15 @ 5:30–8:00pm – Brant Museum & Archives
Learn more or get involved:
Brantford Poppy Project  | brantfordpoppyproject@gmail.com

Weekly Summer Events

Mondays and Wednesdays, 7:00–9:00pm

Roller Skate in the Square

Get movin' and groovin' with a live DJ during Roller Skate in the Square at Harmony Square, 89 Dalhousie Street. Presented by Contact Brant, this all-ages event features on-site skate rentals for a small fee, with sizes ranging from youth 12 to adult 15. Registration is completed on-site, and there is no program on August 3.

Learn more:

Roller Skate in the Square 

Tuesdays, 10:00–11:00am

Character Meet and Greets

Children can visit Harmony Square, 89 Dalhousie Street, to meet a different character from Glass Slipper Company each week. Presented by Contact Brant, these magical mornings include photo opportunities, colouring pages, and the chance to have artwork signed by the featured character. In the event of inclement weather, the program moves to the lobby of the Sanderson Centre for the Performing Arts.

Learn more:

Character Meet and Greets 

Tuesdays, 2:30–3:30pm

Tween Freeze Fest

Kids ages 8–12 can visit the Main Branch of the Brantford Public Library for this weekly drop-in program featuring ice-themed games, frosty crafts, and refreshing icy snacks. 

Tween Freeze Fest 

Tuesdays, 5:30–6:30pm

The Hangout

Teens ages 13–17 can visit the Main Branch of the Brantford Public Library for a relaxed drop-in space featuring snacks, games, and optional book discussions. Whether you're reading this summer or not, everyone is welcome to come hang out. 

The Hangout 

Tuesdays and Thursdays, 12:00–2:00pm

Chess in the Square

Players of all ages and skill levels can enjoy free outdoor chess with the Brantford Chess Club at Harmony Square, 58 Dalhousie Street. Whether you're a seasoned player or just learning, everyone is welcome to drop in for an afternoon of strategy and fun. 

Chess in the Square | City of Brantford 

Wednesdays & Fridays, 6:00–9:00pm

Drop-In Pickleball

Players of all skill levels are welcome to drop in for pickleball hosted by the Holmedale Neighbourhood Association at Dufferin Park in Brantford. Sessions are held every Wednesday and Friday throughout the summer, and anyone interested in trying the sport is welcome.

Contact:

Erica | 519-759-4150 | hnapickleball@gmail.com 

Wednesdays, 2:30–3:30pm

Pages of Summer: Art Journaling for Kids

Children of all ages can visit the Main Branch of the Brantford Public Library for a creative reading adventure. Each week features new prompts and ideas to inspire reading, drawing, and artistic expression. Journals are provided, and the program is offered on a drop-in basis. 

Pages of Summer: Art Journaling for Kids 

Fridays, 7:00–8:30pm

Music in the Square

Enjoy free outdoor concerts in Harmony Square in downtown Brantford all summer long. Presented by TD Bank Group, Music in the Square features a variety of live musical performances, weather permitting, with special Sunday afternoon performances on select dates. 

Learn more:

Music in the Square: Telephone City Musical Society

Fridays, 2:30–4:30pm
Family Flick Favourites
Families can visit the Main Branch of the Brantford Public Library for weekly movie afternoons featuring favourite family films. Snacks are provided, and caregivers are encouraged to use discretion as some movies may contain material not suitable for younger children.
Movie Schedule:
• August 21 – Alvin and the Chipmunks (G)
• August 28 – A Minecraft Movie (PG)
Family Flick Favourites: The Goonies 
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August 20, 8:00–11:00pm

Movies in the Square: A Minecraft Movie

Families can visit Harmony Square, 89 Dalhousie Street, for a free outdoor showing of A Minecraft Movie. Pre-show activities begin before the movie, and popcorn, sweet treats, and non-alcoholic beverages are available for purchase. Moviegoers who ride their bike to the event receive a free bag of popcorn. 

August 22, 8:40–11:00pm

Movies in the Park: Hitpig

Families can visit Dufferin Park, 164 St. Paul Avenue, for a free outdoor showing of Hitpig. Bring a lawn chair or blanket and enjoy a movie under the stars, presented by the local Neighbourhood Association. 

August 24 @ 2:30–3:15pm

Marvelous Mondays: Disney Trivia

Visit the Main Branch of the Brantford Public Library for a family-friendly afternoon of fast-paced Disney trivia and put your knowledge of your favourite characters and stories to the test. 

August 26, 8:30–11:00pm

Movies in the Park: Sonic the Hedgehog 3

Families can visit Pleasant Ridge Park, 20 Elderwood Avenue, for a free outdoor showing of Sonic the Hedgehog 3. Bring a lawn chair or blanket and enjoy a movie under the stars, presented by the local Neighbourhood Association. 

August 27, 7:45–11:00pm

Movies in the Square: How to Train Your Dragon (2025)

Families can visit Harmony Square, 89 Dalhousie Street, for a free outdoor showing of How to Train Your Dragon (2025). Pre-show activities begin before the movie, and popcorn, sweet treats, and non-alcoholic beverages are available for purchase. Moviegoers who ride their bike to the event receive a free bag of popcorn.

August 29, 8:30–11:00pm

Movies in the Park: Space Jam (1996)

Families can visit City View Park, 184 Terrace Hill Street, for a free outdoor showing of Space Jam (1996). Bring a lawn chair or blanket and enjoy a movie under the stars, presented by the local Neighbourhood Association.

August 31, 5:30–7:30pm

Jewelry Making Drop-In

Adults ages 18+ can visit the Main Branch of the Brantford Public Library for a relaxed, social jewelry-making session. All skill levels are welcome, and staff provide basic instruction along with a variety of materials for creating handmade pieces. 

September 2, 8:20–11:00pm

Movies in the Park: Elio

Families can visit Recreation Park, 258 Nelson Street, for a free outdoor showing of Elio. Bring a lawn chair or blanket and enjoy a movie under the stars, presented by the local Neighbourhood Association. 

September 9, 9:30am–1:30pm

SafeTALK Suicide Prevention Training

Anyone ages 15+ can attend this free, in-person suicide prevention training from Woodview Mental Health and Autism Services. Participants will learn practical skills and build confidence to recognize when someone may be struggling and support a person in need. The session takes place at 643 Park Road North in Brantford and requires a minimum of 10 participants to run. Registration is required.

Learn more or register:

SafeTALK Suicide Prevention Training | engagement@woodview.ca 

September 9, 10:00–11:30am

BRC CORE Workshops: Business Planning 1

Entrepreneurs and aspiring business owners can join this free online workshop to learn the fundamentals of creating a business plan. The session covers key areas including company profiles, industry and competition, products and services, target markets, operations, marketing, and financials. This is Part 1 of a two-part series, and registration for each session is separate.

Learn more or register:

Register for Business Planning 1 | 519-756-4269 | brc@brantford.ca

September 9, 4:30–5:00pm

Flag Raising: Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD)

Community members are invited to Harmony Square for a flag raising ceremony recognizing Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Awareness Month. The event helps raise awareness of FASD and show support for individuals, families, and caregivers impacted by FASD.

Contact:

Mayor’s Office | 519-759-4150 | officeofthemayor@brantford.ca 

September 9, 7:00–8:30pm

Bringing History Alive Through Storytelling: A Creator Event

Explore how local history can be shared through storytelling, including print, theatre, documentary film, and interactive community experiences. This special event brings together local creators Vince Ball, Peter Muir, Eric Philpott, and Will Prinzen for a conversation moderated by Murray Angus, President of the Brant Historical Society. Presented in partnership with Immigrant Memories of Brantford. Registration is required.

Learn more or register:

519-756-2220 ext. 3356 | rharding@brantfordlibrary.ca 

September 10, 10:00–11:30am

Business Grants: A Practical Guide for Small Business Owners

Small business owners can attend this free workshop to learn how to find and apply for grant opportunities. The session covers preparing your business before applying, writing stronger applications, and organizing and tracking opportunities through the application and post-award reporting process. Participants will also receive a practical template they can begin using right away. The workshop takes place at Brantford City Hall, 58 Dalhousie Street.

Learn more or register:

Register for Business Grants Workshop | 519-756-4269 | brc@brantford.ca 

September 16, 10:00–11:30am

BRC CORE Workshops: Business Planning 2

Entrepreneurs and aspiring business owners can continue building their business plan in Part 2 of this free online workshop series. The session explores key components including company profiles, industry and competition, products and services, target markets, operations, marketing, and financials, with a focus on connecting each section into a clear and actionable plan. Registration for Part 2 is separate from Part 1.

Learn more or register:

Register for Business Planning 2 | 519-756-4269 | brc@brantford.ca 

September 17, 6:00–7:30pm
An Evening with Claire Cameron
Join acclaimed Canadian author Claire Cameron for an evening exploring her writing and latest book, How to Survive a Bear Attack: A Memoir, a national bestseller and winner of the 2025 Governor General’s Literary Award in Non-Fiction. Cameron is also the author of The Bear and The Last Neanderthal. Registration is required.
Learn more or register:
An Evening with Claire Cameron | 519-756-2220 ext. 3321 | acumberbatch@brantfordlibrary.ca

September 23, 10:00–11:30am

BRC CORE Workshops: Market Research

Entrepreneurs and small business owners can join this free online workshop to learn how to find and use existing data to better understand their industry, competitors, financing opportunities, and current and potential customers. Participants will learn how to ask the right questions, collect useful data, and interpret their findings to make more informed business decisions.

Learn more or register:

Register for Market Research | 519-756-4269 | brc@brantford.ca 

October 6, 2:00–3:00pm

PA Day Writing Workshop with Lana Button

Kids ages 9–14 can join award-winning children’s author Lana Button for a fun, hands-on writing workshop. Using examples from her published books, Lana will share tips for developing story ideas, creating interesting characters, and taking a story from problem to solution. Participants should bring a pencil, paper, and their imagination. Registration is required.

Learn more or register:

PA Day Writing Workshop with Lana Button | 519-756-2220 ext. 3304 | bvivash@brantfordlibrary.ca 

October 7, 10:00–11:30am
BRC CORE Workshops: Marketing and Sales
Entrepreneurs and small business owners can join this free online workshop to learn how to create and implement effective marketing and sales strategies. The session covers identifying target customers, generating leads, choosing promotional and advertising tactics, handling objections, setting sales goals, and measuring the results of marketing efforts.
Learn more or register:
Register for Marketing and Sales | 519-756-4269 | brc@brantford.ca

October 7, 6:30–8:30pm

Brantford’s Fall Volunteer Fair

Community members can visit this free volunteer fair to explore local opportunities, connect with organizations, build new skills, and discover ways to get involved in the community. There is something for a variety of interests and experience levels. The event takes place at the T.B. Costain/SC Johnson Community Centre, 16 Morrell Street.

Learn more or contact:

519-759-4150 ext. 5070 | bravabrant@gmail.com 

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 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