Well-Being and Student Support

• A confidential, 24/7 Canada-wide suicide crisis helpline
• Call or text 9-8-8

• An immediate, barrier-free, confidential support available by phone call.
• For individuals who are or know someone who is having thoughts of suicide.
• Available 24/7 and in up to 140 languages.
• 1-800-SUICIDE (1-800-784-2433)

• For individuals who would like emotional support, information, and resources specific to mental health in BC.
• Available 24/7 and is toll-free anywhere in the province.
• 310-6789 (no area code needed)

• Available to all Indigenous folks in BC, offering confidential, culturally safe risk-management and crisis response.
• Available 24/7 and is toll-free anywhere in the province.
• 1-800-KUU-US17 (1-800-588-8717)

• Clinical Counsellors providing a safe and confidential space to explore concerns and strengthen your ability to cope right here on campus.
• Short-term counselling related to personal, mental health, career, and/or academic challenges.
• To request an appointment or for more information visit the OC Counselling Services webpage.

• Students both domestic and international, who are currently registered in a BC post-secondary institution, can access this free, confidential counselling and community referral service.
• Available 24/7 via app, phone, and online chat.
• 1-877-857-3397

• Trained volunteers provide confidential emotional support and referrals to community resources in multiple languages for individuals who prefer assistance in a language other than English.
• Mandarin Line: 1-888-721-0596 / Ext.1
  • 7 days a week: 10:00am to 10:00pm
• Cantonese Line: 1-888-721-0596 / Ext.2
  • 7 days a week: 10:00am to 10:00pm
• Korean Line: 1-888-721-0596 / Ext.3
  • Mon – Fri: 10:00am – 8:00pm
  • Sat – Sun: 10:00am – 5:00pm
• Farsi-Dari Line: 1-888 -721-0596 / Ext.4
  • Mon – Fri: 10:00am – 8:00pm
  • Sat – Sun: 10:00am – 5:00pm
• Ukrainian Line: 1-888-721-0596 / Ext.5
  • Mon – Fri: 10:00am – 8:00pm
  • Sat – Sun: 10:00am – 5:00pm

• A free, confidential, online peer support and crisis service for underrepresented individuals, including people of color, 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals, and those living with disabilities. 
• Trained peer responders offer support for mental health struggles, identity-related challenges, and other crises.
• Support is available through the online chat feature on the website during open hours. 
• Visit the website for current hours of operation and additional support resources.

• A province-wide network of integrated health and wellness services for people ages 12-24 and their caregivers. 
• Offers services in mental health care, substance use services, physical and sexual health care, youth and family peer supports, and social services. 
• Supports can be accessed in-person or virtually via the website or app. 
• Foundry Centre Kelowna: 
  • 236-420-2803 
  • foundry@cmhakelowna.org
• Foundry Centre Penticton 
  • 778-646-2292 
  • Foundrypenticton@oneskycommunity.com

Okanagan College is committed to fostering supportive campuses promoting assistance, intervention, and consent. If you have been affected by sexual violence or know someone who needs assistance we are here to help with support, information, and resources.

• Clinical Counsellors providing a safe and confidential space to process your experience with sexual violence while working collaboratively with you to strengthen your ability to cope right here on campus.
• Can help make referrals to longer-term counselling options and supports in the community.
• To request an appointment or for more information visit the OC Counselling Services webpage.

• A support program that provides information and referral services for victims of crime and trauma across BC and Yukon.
• Available 24/7 and in 240 languages via phone or email.
• 1-800-563-0808 (call or text)
• 211-victimlinkbc@uwbc.ca

• If you have experienced sexual assault and wish to seek medical care, the Sexual Assault Forensic Examination (SAFE) Program is available at each hospital in the Interior Health Region.
• This type of care can offer STI prevention, care, and treatment as well as emergency contraceptive options.
• There is no obligation to file a police report to access this service.
• You are welcome to bring a support individual such as a friend or case worker from The Elizabeth Fry Society, SOWINS, or the SAFE Society.
• Kelowna General Hospital: 250-862-4000
• Penticton General Hospital: 250-492-4000
• Vernon Jubilee Hospital: 250-545-2211
• Shuswap Lake General Hospital: 250-833-3600

• Provides free, confidential, trauma-informed support, services, and information for individuals of all genders impacted by sexualized violence.
• Assists individuals in navigating the criminal justice system, accompaniment to healthcare services, safety planning, and accessing community supports. 
• referral@kelownawomensshelter.ca 
• Community Support phone: 778-410-2204
• 24/7 Helpline: 250-763-1040

• Provides services to adults, youth and children of all genders impacted by power-based crimes, including sexualized violence, gender-based violence, intimate partner violence, and child abuse.
• Provides supportive listening, safety planning, advocacy, crisis response, and practical support. Support may include help navigating the criminal justice system, court orientation and accompaniment, assistance with victim impact statements, and connections to community resources and supports.
• referral@kelownawomensshelter.ca 
• Community Support phone: 778-410-2204
• 24/7 Helpline: 250-763-1040

• A service to provide shelter, safety, and support by helping individuals recognize, understand, and overcome the impacts of abuse. 
• For individuals who have experienced, or who are at risk of experiencing violence or abuse.
• Services are available to residents of Penticton and the South Okanagan.
• No referral necessary.
• 250-493-4366
• 24/7 Crisis Line & Emergency Shelter: 1-800-814-2033
• info@sowins.com

• Provides multiple programs and services for survivors of sexual violence and their families. 
• Some of the programs include community-based victim services, sexual violence support, outreach, family violence prevention, and transition houses. 
• Services are available to residents of Salmon Arm and the North and South Shuswap. 
• 24/7 Crisis Line: 250-832-9616 

• Provides free, safe, and confidential support to survivors of sexual violence in hopes of empowering each survivor to make the choices that are best for them.  
• Offers a variety of services including medical care and forensic exams, reporting options, navigation of the justice system, connection to community resources, and ongoing emotional support. 
• Services are available to residents of Vernon and the North Okanagan.  
• Monday – Friday: 8:30am – 4:30pm: 250-309-6733 
• 24/7 Support Line: 250-542-1122 
• SAS@archwaysociety.ca 

• Offers free emergency and transitional housing as well as outreach and support for women experiencing domestic abuse.
• Services are available to residents of Kelowna and the surrounding area (from Peachland to Oyama). 
• 24/7 Help Line: 250-763-1040
• Text Line: 236-970-0704
• support@kelownawomensshelter.ca

• A Vancouver-based organization that offers free, anti-oppressive, intersectional feminist, decolonizing support to survivors or sexualized violence.
• Provides a free, confidential 24/7 Crisis & Information Line, as well as text and online chat support.
• Text and Chat Support Hours (PST):
  • Monday – Wednesday: 9:00am – 1:00am
  • Thursday & Friday: 9:00am – 5:00pm
  • Saturday: 9:00am – 5:00pm
  • Sunday: 1:00pm – 9:00pm
• 24/7 Crisis & Information Line: 1-877-392-7583
• Salal Connect (Text & Chat Support): Text 604-245-2425 or visit the Salal website to chat online.
•  admin@salalsvsc.ca

• All full-time students on the Kelowna, Penticton, and Salmon Arm campuses are automatically registered with the extended medical and dental benefits through Greenshield.

• The VSAOC has established an extended health and dental plan that is mandatory for all Vernon students enrolled in two or more courses.

• A financial benefits program to assist survivors, immediate family members, and certain witnesses in dealing with the effects of violent crime. This organization aims to help offset financial loss and assist in recovery from injury.
• 1-866-660-3888

• For non-urgent medical consultation or information on thousands of health topics.
• Available 24/7.
• Call 8-1-1

• An app that lets you see a doctor, psychologist, counsellor, or dietitian from your phone for little or no cost.
• You can book appointments that work for you including during evening and weekends.

• A provincial program that provides information, education, navigation, and support related to gender-affirming health care and wellness for trans, Two-Spirit, and non-binary people across BC.
• Can assist with finding gender-affirming health care providers, accessing hormone therapy or surgery information, navigating referrals, connecting to peer support, and locating community resources. 
• To connect with a Health Navigator:
  • Complete a contact form
  • Toll-free (in BC): 1-866-999-1514
  • Outside of BC: 604-675-3647
  • transcareteam@phsa.ca 

• An online registry for individuals who do not have a family doctor or nurse practitioner.
• Register to join the provincial waitlist and be matched with a healthcare provider when one becomes available in your community.

• Provide same-day care for issues such as infections, minor injuries, sprains, cuts, and fevers. Intended for people who don’t have a family doctor or can’t get a timely appointment.
• Search on the website to find a UPCC location near you.

• Provides information, resources, referrals, and support to individuals affected by eating disorders.
• Phone and live chat hours (PST):
  • Monday – Thursday: 6:00am – 6:00pm
  • Friday: 6:00am – 3:00pm
  • Saturday and Sunday: 9:00am – 3:00pm
• 1-866-NEDIC-20 (1-866-633-4220)
• nedic@uhn.ca 

• Offers peer support programs and affordable counselling for individuals affected by eating disorders. Services are available to residents of British Columbia.
• Peer support is available through one-on-one support, online group chats, and a private digital space for ongoing personalized support.
• 604-314-0548
• info@lookingglassbc.com

• A U.S.-based nonprofit offering free peer support for individuals affected by eating disorders.
• Offers connection with peers and trained volunteers through online support groups and helpline services.
• Offers an online library of educational materials and recovery resources for individuals, families, and caregivers.
• Helpline hours: Monday-Friday 9:00am – 9:00pm CT (7:00am – 7:00pm PST)
• Helpline: 888-375-7767 (International fees may apply).

• Provides information, resources, and referrals in a welcoming and inclusive way. 
• Find them at OC events on campus throughout the year.
• For more information on this program contact the Recreation and Student Life office.
• kelownarec@okanagan.bc.ca

• Provides culturally appropriate information, resources, and referrals in a welcoming and inclusive way.
• Engages with all peers in the Indigenous Centre, building community and promoting services and events.
• For more information about this program contact the Indigenous Services office.
• Indigenous@okanagan.bc.ca 

• Online, mental health network that offers students instant access to peer support.
• Available 24/7 via the app.
• Register using your Okanagan College email (firstname.lastname@myokanagan.bc.ca)

• A student foodbank on the Kelowna campus run by the OC Students’ Union that provides non-perishable goods and hygiene products.
• Access is available by appointment only.

• A student foodbank on the Penticton campus run by the OC Students’ Union that provides non-perishable goods and hygiene products.
• The food bank operates as a drop-in service during posted hours in the OCSU Office (PE C14, Sunoka Building). 
• Visit the OCSU Food Security webpage for current hours, guidelines, and additional community food resources.

• Lunch on Us: Once each month, a limited number of students can sign up to receive a meal voucher. Contact loftus@ocsu.ca for info on how to register.

• Emergency Vouchers: Provides emergency food vouchers for students.
• Student Food Bank: Students can pick up food bag packages and grocery store gift certificates from the VSAOC office.
• The Good Food Box Program: A program VSAOC provides for students who require help on a monthly basis.
• Confectionary Sales: The VSAOC office offers snacks for low prices.

• Provides food and other assistance to those needing help in Kelowna and West Kelowna.
• Kelowna Branch Contact Info:
  • 250-763-7161
  • info@cofoodbank.com
• West Kelowna Branch Contact Info:
  • 250-768-1559
  • infowk@cofoodbank.com

• Provides for the mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual well-being of all peoples through the development of community-based services while encouraging the community to preserve, share and promote Aboriginal cultural distinctiveness.
• Offers programming rooted in the Indigenous world view. This includes services in health and wellness, housing, employment, cultural healing, and much more.
• 250-763-4905

• The Ooknakane Friendship Centre is an Aboriginal Not-For-Profit society that is committed to providing holistic, culturally-driven programs and services designed to support, educate and strengthen people of all nations.
• Offers resources for family support, mental health and addictions, Elder support, and employment.
• 250-490-3504

• Works towards the health and wellness of all First Nations in BC through its unique approach to wellness and its support of community wellness activities. 
• They offer in-person and telehealth options for many of their services. 
• 604-693-6500

• Enables First Nations people in BC with limited or no access to their own doctors to make virtual appointments. 
• This is a unique service for First Nations people in BC​​ and their family members, even if those family members are not Indigenous. The program includes doctors of Indigenous ancestry, and all doctors are trained to follow the principles and practices of cultural safety and humility.
• Available 7 days a week from 8:30am-4:30pm
• 1-855-344-3800

• Available to all Indigenous people across Canada.  
• Experienced and culturally competent counsellors are reachable by telephone and online chat 24/7. 
• Both services are available in English and French.  
• Telephone support is also available upon request in: 
  • Cree; 
  • Ojibway (Anishinaabemowin); 
  • Inuktitut. 
  • (Note: Supports in Cree, Ojibway, and Inuktitut are not available 24/7, so you may need to call in to find out the next time that a language-speaker will be available.) 
• 1-855-242-3310 

• Provides essential services to residential school survivors and families experiencing intergenerational trauma.
• Services include emotional and cultural support, crisis counselling, a Youth Justice Program, support for families impacted by Missing & Murdered Indigenous Women & Girls, 2SLGBTQIA+ support, a crisis line, and more.
• 24/7 Crisis Line: 1-800-721-0066

• A free, confidential 24/7 crisis line for Métis people of all ages in BC.
• 1-833-638-4722

• Members of the OC International Team who can assist with all aspects of studying in Canada and offer culturally sensitive supports.
• culturalliaison@okanagan.bc.ca

• Members of the OC International Team who can support international students with the immigration aspects of studying in Canada.
• intedimmigration@okanagan.bc.ca

• There are three types of medical insurance that OC international students can access. Please note that there are different conditions for each of these services. Connect with the OC International Team if you are unsure of what you qualify for.
• Guard.me: An insurance provider for international students who are new to Canada, do not yet have MSP, or have a study permit for 6 months or less.
• Medical Services Plan (MSP): BC public health insurance which is available to all students with a study permit for 6 months or more.
• Extended Health and Dental Plan: Available through OC Students’ Unions.

• Offers free and accessible counselling for 2SLGBTQIA+ and/or IBPOC youth (up to age 24) within the Syilx Okanagan region.
• Services include individual counselling, group programming, workshops and trainings, and access to gender-affirming wear. 
• Operates from an anti-oppressive, trauma informed, anti-racist, decolonial, and intersectional lens.
• Self and community referrals are welcome.

• An inclusive national therapist directory that offers a safer, simpler way to find a culturally responsive, LGBTQIA2S+ affirming, social justice-oriented practitioner.
• Works to center the needs of Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) and LGBTQIA2S+ intersections (QTBIPOC).

• A national trans-led organization that connects trans people to the community, support, and resources they need to survive and thrive. 
• Resources available include direct emotional support, financial support, advocacy, and education.
• Offers a peer support phone service for trans individuals and questioning peers in English and Spanish.
• Available Monday-Friday 10:00am - 6:00pm (PST)
• 1-877-330-6366

• A non-profit organization developed by and for parents and caregivers of trans, gender diverse, and two-spirit people in Kelowna and the Okanagan. 
• Provides community consultation, advising and advocacy on issues related to families of trans youth.  
• Operates a peer support network, monthly meetings, guest speakers, and a lending library of books, videos and other resources. 

• A catalyst for building and celebrating the strength, equality, dignity and self-determination of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community in Kelowna and the Okanagan. 
• In addition to planning the yearly pride events, they also offer resources including various support groups, hotlines, book suggestions, and supportive health options.  

• A free support line for 2SLGBTQIA+ youth (ages 15-29) in British Columbia.
• Provides confidential peer support, resources, and information from trained 2SLGBTQIA+ volunteers via text, online chat, or phone.
• Available Saturday-Thursday: 6:00pm – 9:00pm (PST).
• Text: 250-800-9036
• Call Toll Free: 1-855-956-1777

• A free, confidential, online peer support and crisis service for underrepresented individuals, including people of color, 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals, and those living with disabilities. 
• Trained peer responders offer support for mental health struggles, identity-related challenges, and other crises.
• Support is available through the online chat feature on the website during open hours. 
• Visit the website for current hours of operation and additional support resources.

• A provincial program that provides information, education, navigation, and support related to gender-affirming health care and wellness for trans, Two-Spirit, and non-binary people across BC.
• Can assist with finding gender-affirming health care providers, accessing hormone therapy or surgery information, navigating referrals, connecting to peer support, and locating community resources. 
• To connect with a Health Navigator:
  • Complete a contact form
  • Toll-free (in BC): 1-866-999-1514
  • Outside of BC: 604-675-3647
  • transcareteam@phsa.ca 

• Provides personalized support for students with disabilities to ensure equal access to education at Okanagan College.
• Helps with academic accommodations, assistive technology, and creating learning environments tailored to individualized needs.
• disabilityaccess@okanagan.bc.ca

• Provides support, information, and referrals for people in the South Okanagan.
• Services include referrals to community resources, legal advocacy, disability advocacy, tax assistance, help with government forms, and more.
• 250-493-6822
• support@accesscentre.org

• A provincial organization dedicated to supporting people with disabilities. They provide resources, advocacy, and assistance with accessing benefits, including the Persons with Disabilities (PWD) designation.
• Offers workshops, publications, and individual support to help navigate challenges and access the services.

• Aims to provide a safe space to be connected to services such as substance use and treatment services, Opioid Agonist Treatment, Substance Use Day Treatment, and adult mental health services.
• No referral is required and virtual as well as in-person appointment are available.
• 250-310-6478

• An international fellowship of people who come together to solve their drinking problem. Membership is open to anyone who wishes to achieve and maintain sobriety. 
• Meetings are free with no requirements to participate. 
• Groups are offered worldwide and online. 

• A global, community-based organization with a multilingual and multicultural membership for anyone who wants to stop using drugs.
• Membership is open to anyone who wishes to achieve and maintain abstinence.
• Meetings are free, but participants must be willing to abstain from any drug use.
• Groups are offered worldwide and online.

• A mutual support group of peers who are experiencing challenges related to an individual struggling with substance misuse in their lives.
• The group is open to anyone who desires this support, even if they are no longer in contact with the individual in question.
• Al-Anon is free for anyone over 18 and Alateen is available for individuals younger than 18.
• Groups are offered worldwide, online, and over the phone. 

• A province-wide network of integrated health and wellness services for people ages 12-24 and their caregivers. 
• Offers services in mental health care, substance use services, physical and sexual health care, youth and family peer supports, and social services. 
• Supports can be accessed in-person or virtually via the website or app. 
• Foundry Centre Kelowna: 
  • 236-420-2803 
  • foundry@cmhakelowna.org
• Foundry Centre Penticton 
  • 778-646-2292 
  • Foundrypenticton@oneskycommunity.com

• Provides programs and resources to children, youth, and families of the Central Okanagan. 
• Offers four broad areas of services: 
  • Parenting education and support 
  • Youth and family counselling 
  • Foster home and caregiver support  
  • Recovery and addiction services including detox, supported recovery, and treatment. 
• 1-855-760-0456 
• info@thebridgeservices.ca 

• Interior Health’s single point of access for adults seeking support related to substance use, including withdrawal management (detox) and treatment services.
• Provides same-day clinical screening, assessment, and triage by a nurse or trained clinician to help determine the most appropriate care options based on an individual’s needs, risks, and circumstances.
• Support may include connections to virtual, community-based, at-home, or bed-based substance use services, as well as information about treatment and recovery options.
• To access call: 1-866-777-1103
  • 7 days week: 9:00am – 4:30pm

• Provides free, comprehensive learning assistance to OC students for a variety of subjects including English, reading, writing, math, science, and the trades. 
• Help is available online and in-person on every OC campus. 

• OC librarians offer research assistance and can help you find resources, develop and follow a research strategy, cite sources, and more.
• Students can also book group study rooms, borrow laptops, and print from the Library.

• Provides free literacy support services for adults, refugees, immigrant families, children, and seniors.
• Services include English, math, financial, and digital literacy tutoring.
• 250-762-2163
• admin@projectliteracy.ca

• A life-saving app that links users to mental health and substance use resources. 
• Features include crisis resources, suicide support, medical services, peer chat, and a use alone timer for substance use. 
• Offers education regarding performing CPR, drug alerts, naloxone distribution, safe consumption sites, and more. 

• A free and confidential harm reduction service that helps individuals better understand the contents of substances and reduce the risk of overdose or drug poisoning.
• Drug checking services are available at various locations throughout the Interior Health region. Check the website for current locations, hours, and available services.

• Provides free legal help for BC residents.

• Provides free legal services to people who need help with a provincial human rights complaint.

• Free lawyer referral service and several pro bono programs serving the critical legal needs of people and non-profit organizations across BC.

• A non-profit organization that provides free legal education, representation, and advocacy on residential tenancy matters in British Columbia.
• Infoline hours (PST):
  • Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday: 1pm-5pm
  • Wednesday: 5:30pm-8:30pm
• Tenant Infoline: 1-800-665-1185

• A free online resource for basic information on the law in BC.
• The information on the site is reviewed by lawyers and updated regularly.

• An online resource hub that provides legal information, education, and community resources for Two-Spirit, trans, non-binary, and gender diverse people across Canada. 
• Includes Canada-wide and province-specific information on topics such as human rights, name and gender marker changes, employment, housing, family law, and interactions with police or the legal system. 
• info@justicetrans.org