No one in Ontario should sleep outside because they do not know who to call. Shelters are free, and staff are used to helping people who have just arrived in Canada.
Emergency
Immediate danger to life or safety.
211 Ontario
Free service directory, day and night, in many languages.
Assaulted Women Helpline
Support and shelter referrals for women fleeing violence.
What shelters provide
- A bed, meals and a safe place to keep your documents.
- Referrals to health care, legal help and settlement services.
- Housing workers who help you search for a permanent home.
- Separate spaces for families, for women, for youth and for men.
What happens when you call 211
Tell the person your location, family size, language needs and whether anyone has a disability, a pet or a safety concern. They can check options for adults, families, youth, refugee claimants and people fleeing violence. Availability changes, so they may discuss more than one option.
What to bring if you can
- Identification, immigration papers and important documents for children.
- Medication, health information, a phone charger and essential belongings.
- Information about accessibility, food, language and safety needs.
Refugee claimants can also ask about reception houses and dedicated programs that combine short term accommodation with claim support. Call 211 and say clearly that you are a refugee claimant with nowhere to stay.