Resources for Youth in Perth County

If you are in crisis: 
Call 911
 
• Go to the nearest hospital 
• Call Crisis Services Canada (24/7) at 1-833-456-4566

Use 211 Ontario to find community and social resources near you.  
Call: 211 | Text: 211 Website: 211ontario.ca

Career and Life Skills

The Career Centre at Conestoga is your one stop for personalized support. Services and resources are available at no cost to the job seeker or graduate. We can help you meet your job goals. Connect with us them you would like assistance with:

  • Finding new employment and career opportunities
  • Creating a personal plan
    Gaining a competitive edge by connecting with Conestoga-affiliated employers
  • Understanding the job opportunities in your local area
  • Launching your career
    Accessing free technology including computers and printers
  • Completing applications to access financial incentives for returning to school
  • Exploring training options to fit your needs
  • Strengthening your skills with technology and how to make the most of it while looking for work

For services in Stratford, Perth and Huron Counties please email us at stratfordcareercentre@conestogac.on.ca or by phone at 519-271-5700, ext. 7224.

The Stratford Public Library is equipped with computers for both adult and youth use. Computer use for adults and teens requires a valid library card and allows access for 2 hours per day. There are 6 two-hour stations and 2 quick-use, 15 minute, terminals located on the main floor.

Learn more: splibrary.ca

Financial and Support

Ontario Works provides income and employment supports to people in temporary financial need. If you qualify, Ontario Works can provide you with:

You may also be eligible for health benefits for yourself and your family, including drug and dental coverage.

Learn more: stratford.ca

Income supports for people in financial need who have permanent disabilities or disabilities expected to last longer than one year * employment supports are available and provided by community service providers.

  • Call: 519-271-1530
  • Visit: 63 Lorne Ave E, Suite 1A Stratford, ON

Learn more: 

 

Legal Support

Legal Aid Ontario provides legal services and resources for low-income people. Their services include:

  • Criminal legal issues
  • Family legal issues
  • Refugee and immigration legal issues
  • Domestic violence 
  • Legal clinics
  • Mental health legal issues

Learn more: legalaid.on.ca/legal-aid-offices/stratford-legal-aid-office

The Huron Perth Community Legal Clinic provides free legal services for low income residents of Huron and Perth Counties. They give people living on a low income free legal services for certain problems.

They can:

  • give you legal advice
  • help you fill out forms
  • represent you at some tribunals and courts
  • refer you to other agencies when we can’t help

Learn more: huronperthlegalclinic.ca

Mental Health and Wellbeing

Kids Help Phone is Canada’s only 24/7, national support service. We offer professional counselling, information and referrals and volunteer-led, text-based support to young people in both English and French.

  • Text CONNECT to 686868
  • Call 1-800-668-6868

Learn more: kidshelpphone.ca

Good2Talk provides free, confidential support services for post-secondary students in Ontario and Nova Scotia

  • Call 1-866-925-5454
  • Text GOOD2TALKON to 686868

Learn more: good2talk.ca

A peer support service offered through telephone, texting, and live chat for 2SLGBTQ youth up to age 29. All volunteers are trained peer supporters ages 16-29 with a diversity of 2SLGBTQ+ identities and lived experiences.

Learn more: youthline.ca

 

Connect to a crisis responder to get help without judgement.

  • Call 1-833-456-4566 (24/7/365)
  • Text 45645 (4pm to Midnight) 

Learn more: talksuicide.ca

Services include brief individual and family counselling, as well as referrals to other community resources including addictions support, housing and other health and mental health services.

No appointments are required and services are first-come, first-served.

Learn more: splibrary.ca