Dear Folx,

We have an important update to share with you. We're temporarily pausing our regular youth programs at this time while we work on making them even better and safer for everyone.
 
Initially, our programming was meant as a social space to connect with others. There has been a shift from it being a social connection to one of support, which is great, and we want to ensure your safety above all.
 
Why are we doing this? We've noticed that many of you are dealing with really tough stuff right now, and we want to make sure we have the right mental health professionals available to support you properly. Your safety and well-being are our top priority, and we want to ensure our programs can meet your needs.
 
We understand that the previous paragraph is a paradox, we understand you are dealing with a lot and we're pausing programming. We were attempting to support the programs with fewer and fewer staff and resources. After assessing our programming, we cannot continue in this current iteration.
 
What's happening next? We'll keep you updated throughout November about our progress.
 
You're not alone - here's where to get help now.
 
24/7 Support:
Canada's Suicide Crisis Helpline
Call or text 988
 
Kids Help Phone
Call 1-800-668-6868, text CONNECT to 686868 or chat online. https://kidshelpphone.ca 
 
Hope for Wellness Helpline - for Indigenous people across Canada
Call 1-855-242-3310 or chat online
 
Other Helplines (not available 24/7):
Trans Lifeline
Call 1-877-330-6366
Monday-Friday from 1-9 pm
They do not put people on hold, so if you don't get through, hang up and try again.
 
LGBT Youthline
Text 647-694-4275 or chat online
Sunday-Friday from 4:00-9:30 pm
 
Other Resources - see Instagram for up-to-date information:
CFS Counselling + Wellbeing YouthCALL @youthcallhub 
Barrie Native Friendship Centre @barrienativefriendshipcentre 
North Simcoe Youth Wellness Hub @nsywhub 
Clearview Youth Centre @clearviewyc 
Orillia Youth Centre @orilliayouthcentre 
Wasaga Beach Youth Centre @wbyouthcentre 
Collingwood Youth Centre @collingwoodyouthcentre 
Fierte Simcoe Pride @fiertesimcoepride
 
We know this might be disappointing or scary, and those feelings are completely valid. Please know that we care about you deeply, and this pause is specifically because we want to do better for you.
 
If you need to talk to someone about this change, you can connect with Caleb (any/all) via email at [email protected] or [email protected].
 
With care,
Your Gilbert Centre Queer & Trans Youth Program Team