COVID-19 Community Resources
Get the most up-to-date information about COVID-19 in Durham Region at durham.ca/NovelCoronavirus or call Durham Region Health Department at 1-800-841-2729. Impacts related to Regional programs and services can be found at durham.ca/ServiceChanges. For information about vaccines, including how to book an appointment to get the vaccine and find assistance with transportation, please visit durham.ca/COVIDvaccines.
Resources in the Community
We’re helping to get the word out to support those in our communities impacted by COVID-19. The Region of Durham has compiled a listing of available resources. This website is being updated regularly and reflects our understanding of resources that are available at this time.
211 Central
Do you need information about financial assistance, mental health support, employment support, childcare, housing, food, clothing and shelter?
Find help at durham.211central.ca or call/chat/text/email 2-1-1.
Do you need help?
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Community Legal Supports |
Durham Community Legal Clinic (DCLC)Learn about the services offered by the Durham Community Legal Clinic. The Durham Community Legal Clinic (DCLC) has created a webpage dedicated to COVID-19 information. For practical answers to questions about the law relating to the COVID-19 situation, please visit COVID-19: Updates on the law and legal services. Legal Aid OntarioFind up-to-date information about temporary service changes due to COVID-19 on the Legal Aid Ontario website or call 1-800-668-8258. |
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Emergency Supports for Unsheltered Residents |
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Information about emergency supports for unsheltered residents is available online through The Gap Committee. Find information about COVID-19 emergency shelter services in Durham Region. Cell Phone Charging LocationsCell phones can be charged at these locations depending on availability. Please let staff know that you would like to charge before plugging in.
Outreach HubsThere are outreach hubs in Ajax and Oshawa to provide wrap around supports for people experiencing unsheltered homelessness. Supports include access to COVID-19 screening, basic needs support, housing outreach, etc. Walk-ins are welcome. Oshawa - Mission United Hub
Ajax - Christian Faith Outreach Centre (back entrance)
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| Emergency Supports for Victims of Violence |
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A full list of violence against women resources available during the COVID-19 crisis is available at Violence Prevention Coordinating Council of Durham. Accessing Legal Resources Find information about accessing legal resources during the COVID-19 emergency. |
| Financial Security |
Are you worried about your income?Ontario WorksOntario Works provides assistance to those in financial need. Find more information about types of assistance, eligibility and how to apply. If you are currently in receipt of Ontario Works you can find information about service updates online. Find information about how Ontario Works clients with No Fixed Address can pick up their Ontario Works cheques. Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP)The ODSP office is providing door-side services from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday to Friday. To minimize contact, clients are encouraged to avoid going to an ODSP office unless they are asked to do so, and to connect with their caseworker through email (if possible) at oshawa.odsp@ontario.ca. Those clients who are on office pick-up can still come and get their cheques. Call the office at 1-800-722-1196. Federal Government Financial SupportsInformation and application processes for Federal Government financial supports for individuals and families (including EI and other proposed new benefits) can be found on the Canada's COVID-19 Economic Response Plan website. The Government of Canada has created an online portal to assist in finding financial help during COVID-19. If you received CERB benefits in error and need information about how to return or repay benefits, get information about options on the Government of Canada website or call 1-800-959-8281. Service Canada Contact InformationSome Service Canada Centres are beginning a gradual reopening across Canada, as guided by local public health advice. If you require in-person services, please check the Find a Service Canada Office webpage to see if your local office is open, and then make a request for an appointment via the eServiceCanada portal. Canadians are encouraged to continue to use the eServiceCanada portal for assistance whenever possible. A new, secure SIN online portal allows Canadians submit an application for a Social Insurance Number (SIN) entirely online within a secure and protected environment. For the most up-to-date information about available services access the Service Canada Outreach Support Centre by calling 1-877-355-2657, Monday to Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Personal Income Tax FilingDrop off and virtual tax filing options are available and listed here. You can find information and resources about filing your taxes yourself from the Government of Canada, including links to certified tax software online. Seniors and other Canadians who do not have access to the internet or face other barriers, may contact the Service Canada Outreach Support Centre for help to get access to the critical benefits they need. Call the toll-free number 1-877-355-2657 TTY: 1-833-719-2657 from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday to Friday. Ontario GovernmentGet more details on Ontario's Action Plan: Responding to COVID-19. Service Ontario Contact InformationIt is strongly recommended that customers continue to access services available online at ServiceOntario.ca and only book an in-person appointment if necessary. Service Ontario is now offering appointment booking at some locations for transactions that need to be completed in-person. Appointments can be booked up to two weeks in advance at Ontario.ca/Appointment. If you need to go to a Service Ontario location, please complete the COVID-19 screening before arriving. COVID-19 Energy Assistance Program (CEAP)Residential, small business or registered charity customers with an overdue electricity or natural gas bill as a result of the COVID-19 emergency can apply for the COVID-19 Energy Assistance Program (CEAP). This program provides a one time, on-bill credit to eligible electricity and natural gas customers. For more information and to apply please contact your utility company. EvictionsIf you are a tenant looking for more information about your rights, including rules about eviction during COVID-19 and how to solve a disagreement with your landlord, the Ontario Government provides information and additional resources that can help. If your landlord has locked you out, or is threatening to lock you out, you can contact Ontario’s Rental Housing Enforcement Unit or call 1-888-772-9277 for help. If you require assistance with rental arrears please see information about housing supports and the Housing Stability Program from the Community Development Council of Durham below. Housing Stability ProgramThe Housing Stability Program helps qualified Durham residents living with low income keep rental housing and avoid homelessness with financial assistance for rental arrears, utility arrears, last months rent deposit and moving costs. For more information and to access online application forms go to the Community Development Council Durham website. Additional Temporary Housing SupportsTemporary Housing Retention Assistance Program (COVID-19): Community Development Council Durham is also offering additional financial assistance for housing costs during the COVID-19 pandemic. Assistance includes assistance with rent and utility arrears and financial help towards housing costs for up to 3 months.
For more information, please contact housinghelp@cdcd.org. Beware of Frauds and ScamsCanadians are encouraged to be extra vigilant about potential online scams and frauds during this time. Please be aware that governments, provincial and federal are not sending out mass email or text campaigns inviting residents to ‘click here’ to apply for benefits or services. Some scammers are also emailing, texting or going door to door promoting fake products or bogus fundraising campaigns. Find up-to-date information about fraud activity and what to do if you think you are a victim of a scam. |
| Food Security - Food Banks |
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To search for food banks operating in Durham Region, please see 211 Central/Durham Region. Find more information about Feed the Need Durham online. NOTE: See below for additional food resources not listed through Feed the Need Durham. Pregnancy Help Centre Durham
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| Food Security - Prepared Meals, Groceries, Pharmacies and Deliveries |
Prepared meals and grocery deliveryCommunity Care DurhamMeals on Wheels is provided by Community Care Durham; call 1-888-255-6680. Community Food Box Community Care Durham has partnered with local suppliers to stock and deliver Community Food Boxes weekly. For details on what is included in a box, cost and how to order for yourself or a loved one please see CCD’s Community Food Box Program or call 1-888-255-6680. Oshawa Senior Community Centres 55+The Oshawa Senior Community Centres 55+ (OSCC55+) can help seniors with grocery order and delivery. Get more information through the OSCC55+ website or by calling 905-576-6712. Uxbridge Helping HandUxbridge Helping Hand is a local volunteer task force. They will run errands and pick up drug prescriptions, shopping or supplies. Contact them at uxbridgehelpinghand@gmail.com Bowmanville Rotary ClubVolunteers will shop and deliver orders for seniors, those who are immunocompromised, or those who have no supports. Delivery and payment are arranged without contact. Orders cannot exceed $200. If you cannot afford food, please reach out. For more information, email bowmanvillerotarydeliversfood@gmail.com or call 905-435-7428. |
| Health and Wellness |
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If you have general questions about COVID-19, or are worried that you may have been exposed, please call Durham Region Health Department at 1-800-841-2729. Get the most up-to-date information abut COVID-19 in Durham Region at durham.ca/NovelCoronavirus. Telehealth Ontario: call 1-866-797-0000. Find COVID-19 information from Public Health Ontario in multiple languages. Access the Government of Ontario’s multilingual information library. Pregnancy Help Centre Durham
Ministry of HealthVirtual doctor appointments (through Ontario Telemedicine Network): This resource will enable a video call with a physician. You sign up for a doctor's appointment and they call you later in the day. It is funded through OHIP. Learn more. Ontario Health Cards: The Ontario government has reinstated renewal requirements and expired Ontario Heath Cards must be renewed by February 28, 2022. Find information about renewing your health card on the Ontario Government website. Uninsured: The Ontario government is waiving the three-month waiting period for Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) coverage and will cover the cost of COVID-19 services for any uninsured people who do not meet the criteria for OHIP coverage. Ontario Seniors Dental Care ProgramThe Ontario Seniors Dental Care Program covers basic dental care, including services such as examinations, x-rays, preventive services, fillings, extractions and denture care for eligible seniors. If you are unable to afford dental care, this program may be for you. Learn more by visiting durham.ca/OralHealth. Are you feeling alone or isolated and worried?Community Care DurhamThere is support. Call Community Care Durham at 1-888-255-6680 to register to be contacted for health and wellness assurance checks. Community Care Durham also offers a Virtual Social Club, hosted by staff from the Adult Day Programs. All are welcome to visit daily and enjoy word games, exercise links, videos and educational links. Alzheimer SocietySupport for caregivers is available from The Alzheimer Society. Call 1-888-301-1106 / 905-576-2567, or contact them via email at information@alzheimerdurham.com. Community LibrariesCommunity libraries are closed to the public at this time, but many online resources such as audiobooks and digital versions of books can be can be accessed through their websites. Check back often for new virtual programming and for details around how to check out books and other materials. Find a list of Durham library websites.
For more community resources for seniors please see Supports for Seniors section Mental Health SupportsIf you are currently receiving mental health and addictions services and supports, please contact your current service provider to learn about potential virtual care options. Distress Centre Durham Hotline: call 905-430-2522. Durham Mental Health Crisis Line: call 1-800-742-1890. Good2Talk: Good2Talk provides confidential support services for post-secondary students in Ontario. Call 1-866-925-5454 or text GOOD2TALKON to 686868. Kids Help Phone: Available online or call 1-800-668-6868 for 24/7 support for children and youth under 18. Health Care Worker Assist Service: This service provides virtual, rapid access to support services for all health care workers. Health care workers can self-refer or refer through their primary care practitioner to Ontario Shores' Central Intake at 1-877-767-9642, call the crisis line at 1-800-263-2679 or visit the Ontario Shores website for more information. Mental Health and Pinewood Centre - Lakeridge Health: Centralized access line for Pinewood Centre and Community Mental Health Services - call 905-721-4747. Rapid Access Addiction Medicine (RAMM): RAMM has re-opened for new client assessments by appointment only. Please call 905-721-4747 ext. 37226 to leave a message. Calls will be returned same day. Follow-up remains virtual at this time. Support for Indigenous Youth and AdultsIndigenous youth and adults now have the option of connecting with First Nations, Inuit and Métis crisis responders via text when available. To access text “First Nations” “Metis” or “Inuit” to: 68 68 68 for youth or 741 741 for adults The texter will be connected with a corresponding crisis responder if available. If none is available, then the texter will be connected to an Indigenous crisis responder from another nation. If no Indigenous crisis responders are available, the texter will be connected with a non-Indigenous crisis responder. Online Support CommunitiesConnexOntario: Online resource for mental health, addictions and problem gambling. Available online or call 1-866-531-2600 (for those over 18). First Nations and Inuit Hope for Wellness Line: Online chat or call 1-855-242-3310 (24/7). Culturally competent phone counselling and crisis intervention available in English, French, Cree, Ojibway, Inuktitut. Trans Lifeline: Access online or call 1-877-330-6366 (24/7). Peer support service run by trans people, for trans and questioning callers. LGBT Youth Line: Call 1-800-268-9688 or text 647-694-4275. Also offers online chat. Get in touch with a peer support volunteer from Sunday to Friday, 4 to 9:30 p.m. Togetherall is an online peer-to-peer support community for your mental health. Free membership is provided by the Ontario Government BounceBack: A guided self-help program using workbooks with phone coaching support. Access online or ask your doctor for a referral. Wellness Together Canada is a new portal dedicated to mental wellness on the Canadian government's coronavirus information page. It connects Canadians to peer support workers, social workers, psychologists and other professionals for confidential chat sessions or phone calls, make it easier to find credible information and help address mental health and substance use issues. Ontario Shores: Are you struggling with anxiety over COVID-19? Find helpful information to help deal with stress and worry through Ontario Shores. (See the right side of the web page under Mental Health Articles.) Counselling SupportsFamily Services Durham: call 1-866-840-6697 extension 1. Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA): All CMHA Durham services remain available through remote delivery where possible within usual operating hours. Phone: 905-436-8760. Durham Mental Health Services is now providing virtual client support through their Crisis and Services Peer Support Program. |
| Local Municipalities - COVID-19 Response Information |
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Local municipalities have information specific to their COVID-19 responses available online for residents. Click on your municipality to learn more. |
| North Durham Community Resources |
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Note: Many community agencies and other services are not providing face-to-face interactions during this time. It is recommended that you call before going, even for scheduled appointments. Brock Community Health Centre
North HouseNorth House's outreach staff are available to help by phone, email, video or text message. Income tax service has resumed. Call for more information:
Eastern York Region North Durham Ontario Health Team (EYRND OHT)The EYRND OHT partners and other local agencies have launched a COVID-19 Support Services website, a one-stop shop that provides essential services (grocery delivery, transportation, personal support and more) to those most in need of help during this difficult time. Essential services are available to those in the Markham-Stouffville, Thornhill, Uxbridge and Brock communities. Salvation Army Ajax, Pickering and UxbridgeFind information about Sunday worship gatherings and online services through the Salvation Army's Ajax, Pickering and Uxbridge location. Uxbridge Helping HandUxbridge Helping Hand is a local volunteer task force. They will run errands and pick up drug prescriptions, shopping or supplies. Contact them at uxbridgehelpinghand@gmail.com Housing Stability ProgramThe Housing Stability Program helps qualified Durham residents living with low income keep rental housing and avoid homelessness with financial assistance for rental arrears. For more information and to access online application forms go to the Community Development Council Durham website. If you are not eligible for this benefit but are struggling with rent or utility costs or need assistance completing the application, contact a Housing Outreach Worker:
Community LibrariesCommunity libraries are closed to the public at this time, but many online resources such as audiobooks and digital versions of books can be can be accessed through their websites. Check back often for new virtual programming and for details around how to check out books and other materials. Find a list of Durham library websites. |
| Supports for Seniors |
Health and WellnessIf you have general questions about COVID-19, or are worried that you may have been exposed, please call Durham Region Health Department at 1-800-841-2729. Get the most up-to-date information about COVID-19 in Durham Region at durham.ca/NovelCoronavirus. Telehealth Ontario: call 1-866-797-0000. Find COVID-19 information from Public Health Ontario in multiple languages. Access the Government of Ontario’s multilingual information library. COVID-19 vaccine informationFor information about vaccines, including how to book an appointment to get the vaccine and find assistance with transportation, please visit durham.ca/COVIDvaccines. Ontario Seniors Dental Care ProgramThe Ontario's Seniors Dental Care Program covers basic dental care including services such as examinations, x-rays, preventive services, fillings, extractions and denture care for eligible seniors. If you are unable to afford dental care, this program may be for you. Learn more by visiting durham.ca/OralHealth. Are you feeling alone or isolated and worried?Community Care DurhamThere is support. Call Community Care Durham at 1-888-255-6680 to register to be contacted for health and wellness assurance checks. Community Care Durham also offers a Virtual Social Club, hosted by staff from the Adult Day Programs. All are welcome to visit daily and enjoy word games, exercise links, videos and educational links. Alzheimer SocietySupport for caregivers is available from The Alzheimer Society. Contact them at information@AlzheimerDurham.com, or call 905-576-2567 (1-888-301-1106). Community LibrariesCommunity libraries are closed to the public at this time, but many online resources such as audiobooks and digital versions of books can be can be accessed through their websites. Check back often for new virtual programming and for details around how to check out books and other materials. Find a list of Durham library websites. Clarington 55+ Active AdultsClarington’s 55+ Active Adults is working to help older adults stay connected and keep active. They are providing a variety of virtual and in-person programs ranging from fitness, general interest and recreational activities, as well as technology support to help people get connected. Their tablet loan program is available for anyone who needs to borrow one and staff are available by email or phone to help with technical support. activeOshawa at HomeThe City of Oshawa is offering a variety of online recreation and culture activities for all ages - see activeOshawa at Home for details. Oshawa Senior Community Centres 55+The Oshawa Senior Community Centres 55+ (OSCC55+) has programs and services to help older adults combat isolation and stay connected during the COVID-19 pandemic. Get more information through the OSCC55+ website or by calling 905-576-6712. Whitby Senior CentreThe Whitby Seniors Center is offering a new Seniors Connection Line connects Whitby seniors with people who can offer information, support and friendly conversation during this time of physical distancing. Call 905-668-1424 to leave your name and number and get a call back. In partnership with the Whitby Public Library, the Whitby Senior Centre is now offering Seniors Centre Without Walls four times per week. Seniors can call in and participate in an hour of activities. For a schedule and call-in details, visit the Whitby Seniors Centre. Bowmanville Older Adults Association (BOAA)The BOAA continues to offer a wide range of virtual programs. A list of events and activities is available on the BOAA website. Ajax Friendly Check-in for SeniorsRegister to receive a friendly check-in call from Town staff, for social connection, updates and links to local resources. To register call 905-427-8811. Pickering 55+ AdultsWhile all of our regular programs and events are on hold, we invite Pickering adults 55+ to join our newly created 55+ Facebook Group. This group offers activities, experiences, social fun and information sharing opportunities just for our older adult community. Learn more. Pickering 55+ Adults is offering Seniors Centre Without Walls - Connect to free weekly programs and Spotlight Series presentations. No computer or internet required. Call 905-420-4660 ext. 2078 or email kbradley@pickering.ca. Brock Community Health CentreCommunity support services are available for food access, systems navigation and wellness checks. Call 705-432-3322. Virtual community programs are also available online. North HouseNorth House remains closed to walk-ins, but outreach staff are available to help by phone, email, video or text message. Income tax service has resumed through drop-off or mail-in only. Call for more information:
Eastern York Region North Durham Ontario Health Team (EYRND OHT)The EYRND OHT partners and other local agencies have launched a COVID-19 Support Services website, a one-stop shop that provides essential services (grocery delivery, transportation, personal support and more) to those most in need of help during this difficult time. Essential services are available to those in the Markham-Stouffville, Thornhill, Uxbridge and Brock communities. For a complete list of supports and resources in North Durham, please visit the North Durham Community Resources section of this page. Mental Health SupportsIf you are currently receiving mental health and addictions services and supports, please contact your current service provider to learn about potential virtual care options. Distress Centre Durham Hotline: call 905-430-2522. Durham Mental Health Crisis Line: call 1-800-742-1890. For a complete list of mental health supports and resources, please visit the Health and Wellness section of this page. Financial SupportsPersonal Income Tax FilingIn-person community tax clinics for residents with low income remain postponed at this time, but some options for drop off and virtual tax filing are available and listed here. You can find information and resources about filing your taxes yourself from the Government of Canada, including links to certified tax software online. Seniors and other Canadians who do not have access to the internet or face other barriers, may contact the Service Canada Outreach Support Centre for help to get access to the critical benefits they need. Call the toll-free number 1- 877-355-2657 TTY: 1-833-719-2657 from 8:30am to 4:00pm Monday to Friday. Beware of Frauds and ScamsCanadians are encouraged to be extra vigilant about potential online scams and frauds during this time. Please be aware that governments, provincial and federal are not sending out mass email or text campaigns inviting residents to ‘click here’ to apply for benefits or services. Some scammers are also emailing, texting or going door to door promoting fake products or bogus fundraising campaigns. Find up-to-date information about fraud activity and what to do if you think you are a victim of a scam. Prepared Meals and Grocery DeliveryMeals on WheelsMeals on Wheels is provided by Community Care Durham; call 1-888-255-6680. Community Food BoxCommunity Care Durham has partnered with local suppliers to stock and deliver Community Food Boxes weekly. For details on what is included in a box, cost and how to order for yourself or a loved one please see CCD’s Community Food Box Program or call 1-888-255-6680. Oshawa Senior Community Centres 55+The Oshawa Senior Community Centres 55+ (OSCC55+) can help seniors with grocery order and delivery. Get more information through the OSCC55+ website or by calling 905-576-6712. Uxbridge Helping HandUxbridge Helping Hand is a local volunteer task force. They will run errands and pick up drug prescriptions, shopping or supplies. Contact them at uxbridgehelpinghand@gmail.com Bowmanville Rotary ClubVolunteers will shop and deliver orders for seniors, those who are immunocompromised, or those who have no supports. Delivery and payment are arranged without contact. Orders cannot exceed $200. If you cannot afford food, please reach out. For more information, email BowmanvilleRotaryDeliversFood@gmail.com or call 905-435-7428. Grocery Stores and PharmaciesMany pharmacies and grocery stores are offering safe shopping hours to seniors and other medically vulnerable people. Many stores are offering online ordering, delivery and curbside pick-up options. Most pharmacies offer free home delivery of prescriptions on an ongoing basis. Please check with your local store for details. Food BanksVisit Feed the Need Durham or call 905-571-3863 for a current list of food banks operating in Durham Region. Elder AbuseElder abuse can take many forms. This can be financial, emotional, physical, or sexual abuse. Elder abuse can also be neglect. Who to call about elder abuse If you, or a senior you know, have been a victim of a theft, fraud or physical assault, contact one of the following:
The Seniors Safety Line offers safety planning, supportive counselling, and referral information for older adults who are being abused or at-risk of abuse. Call 1-866-299-1011. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, or if you need emergency help, call 911. |
| Transit |
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Durham Region Transit is available for those who must travel. Please restrict your travel to essential purposes only and respect onboard protocols and signage. Help us help you: let's work together to keep you, our staff and community safe. Please visit durhamregiontransit.com/COVID-19 to learn more about the service modifications currently in place. |
Can you help?
Many local community agencies are actively seeking volunteers and/or donations to provide help to vulnerable members of our communities in a safe way during this crisis. You can learn more about how you can help at 211 Ontario which provides links to local community agencies and at Volunteer Durham to search for volunteer opportunities in Durham Region.
Food Drives
Feed The Need - Food Donations
Individual food donations can be dropped off at Feed the Need, 371A Marwood Drive, Oshawa, Tuesday to Thursday, from 11 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. If you have a larger donation, please contact us at 905-571-3863 to set up an appointment for drop-off.
Find more information about Feed the Need Durham online.
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