Emergency Shelter Contacts
If you or someone you know is experiencing homelessness or unstable housing, here are resources that can provide immediate assistance:
Shyft
6 Trinity Place, Yarmouth
1-855-781-3111
Note: Transportation is available; call ahead for availability.
Phoenix Youth Shelter
1094 Tower Road, Halifax
902-446-4663
1-888-878-5088
Crisis Lines
These crisis lines provide:
-
Immediate Assistance: One-on-one support in a safe, confidential space.
-
Confidential Support: Your privacy is respected
-
Active Listening: Professionals will listen, offer support, and provide guidance.
-
Resource Connection: Help in connecting with local resources and services.
Mental Health Crisis Team
902-429-8167
Toll-Free: 1-888-429-8167
Kids Help Phone
Text: 686868
Toll-Free: 1-800-668-6868
Suicide Crisis Helpline
Phone or Text: 988
How the Portal Can Help
The Portal Youth Outreach Programs provide support to individuals aged 16 to 24 across Kings County, Annapolis County, and West Hants who face a range of challenges, including poverty, social isolation, unstable housing, family and sexual violence, substance abuse, mental health issues, intergenerational trauma, and discrimination.
If you or someone you know needs assistance, youth can contact us directly by calling or texting 902-691-6556 or using our toll-free number 1-855-261-3773.
For more support, consider these resources:
-
Dial 211: Information and referral services for community, social, and government assistance.
-
Call 811: Non-emergency advice on mental health and addictions.
-
Good2Talk: Confidential support for post-secondary students. Phone: 1-833-292-3698.
-
Access Wellness Nova Scotia: Free supportive counselling for individuals, couples, or families. Phone: 1-833-691-2282.
-
Peer Support Phone Service: Safe space for those 18+ to connect with peer supporters. Call tool-free: 1-800-307-1686.