Need help? We’re here to listen.
Any time,
day or night
Whether someone is struggling with paying bills, leaving an abusive relationship, thoughts of suicide or trying to find help and resources in a very complex system, Distress Centre Calgary (DCC) is there, again and again and again.
Calling DCC means that help is on the way, no matter what the crisis might be.
24-Hour Crisis Support
We provide 24-hour crisis support by phone, text and chat to Calgary and Southern Alberta.
Crisis Counselling
Crisis counselling is a way for us to help with more complex issues, and our professional crisis counsellors provide free counselling for individuals, couples, and families.
211
211 allows us to access an entire network of community, social, health and government services to better help Calgarians and extends to all of Alberta.
Coordinated Entry
The Coordinated Entry team provides multiple programs and services at the location of SORCe. All aspects of the program use a housing-focused approach to support people experiencing or facing homelessness.
988 Suicide Crisis Helpline
Distress Centre Calgary is a 9-8-8 partner and part of the network of crisis lines across the country whose responders take 9-8-8 calls and texts.
Phone or text: 9-8-8.
ConnecTeen
DCC’s youth program, ConnecTeen, provides a safe space for youth to address any problem they have in life, big or small. Youth can contact ConnecTeen 24/7 by phone, chat or text.
The “WHY” of Distress Centre Calgary
Our team is passionately committed to creating an inclusive environment built around protecting, caring for, and helping others. We take pride in being here to help people, whether they’re facing depression or having financial issues, and strive to protect those who are more vulnerable and less fortunate.
Whenever you’re in a difficult moment, big or small, we are here for you.
The services we provide are all a part of our “Why”—what gets us out of bed in the morning is being able to help the people of our community that are in need.
About Distress
Centre Calgary
Our team at Distress Centre Calgary (DCC) provides a variety of services, including 24-hour crisis support, professional counselling, youth peer support, and navigation and referrals through 211 and our programs at SORCe—all at no cost.
For over 50 years, DCC has been all about helping people in need, and our mission is to provide compassionate, accessible crisis and navigation support that enhances the health, well-being and resiliency of individuals in distress. We strive to instill a sense of belonging and ensure everyone is heard and has a place to turn to in times of crisis.
Service to others, excellence, volunteerism, integrity, collaboration, innovation, and leadership are the heart of Distress Centre Calgary, and we take pride in being here for our community. We have 24 hour phone, text, chat.
Our Impact
As we look back on 2025, we’re overwhelmed with gratitude for the people who make our work possible — our volunteers, staff, donors, and advocates. Together, we’ve made a significant impact. Here’s what we achieved this year. Read the full report.
crisis contacts
counselling contacts
ConnecTeen contacts
crisis line volunteers
contacts through 211 Alberta
calls diverted from Calgary 911 to community supports
services delivered through our coordinated entry program
housing and shelter services provided
Check Out Our Blog
Explore what’s new in the community and important updates from Distress Centre Calgary.
Turn Your Spring Cleaning Into Community Impact
Spring is the perfect time to declutter your home and refresh your space. As you sort through closets, garages, and storage rooms, do not forget about those empty bottles and cans taking up space. Instead of hauling them to the depot yourself, turn your spring...
Because of You, Silence Was Turned into Strength
George*, an elderly man, was shadowed by depression that followed him everywhere, no matter how far he tried to outrun it. George learned early in life hiding in isolation would shield him against pain, a strategy he learned from the abuse he and his...
A Mother’s Light Re-Discovered, All Thanks to Your Support!
Mei*, a devoted mother, was shattered when she learned her young daughter had been sexually assaulted. In an instant, her world turned upside down. She felt powerless, unsure how to navigate the complex legal process ahead, and weighed down by...
Our Impact Funders
Get involved
Volunteer Opportunities
Our volunteer opportunities allow you to provide support in various ways, including over the phone and via chat, text, or email. We also provide extensive practical and ongoing training.
Career Opportunities
As Calgary's only 24-hour crisis agency, we're often the first point of contact for those seeking help. If you’re committed to supporting human connection that helps people in their most difficult moments, we want to meet you!
Practicum Opportunities
Practicum opportunities are available year-round in the crisis line and counselling programs, along with other opportunities.
WITH YOUR SUPPORT NO ONE HAS TO FACE CRISIS ALONE.
We want you to know that your donation is currently supporting someone in crisis. Thank you for your contributions.
