You’re Not Alone: Community Supports Available Over the Holidays in Edmonton

The holidays can be joyful, busy, and beautiful — but they can also feel overwhelming, especially when routines shift and support services pause. If you or someone you know needs help over the winter break, here are trusted, accessible resources that remain open for families in Edmonton.

  • 211 Alberta

    Call, text, or chat 24/7.
    Trained staff can help you find supports for:

    • Housing
    • Food
    • Mental health
    • Shelter
    • Parenting resources
    • Crisis lines
    • Community programs

      Visit: ab.211.ca 

  • Health Link 811

    Nurses are available day and night to help answer health questions for babies, children, youth, and adults.
    They can:

    • Help decide whether to visit ER
    • Offer symptom guidance
    • Provide health advice
    • Support new parents 
  • Kids Help Phone (for youth and parents)

    24/7 support by phone, text, or online chat.
    Kids and teens can reach out anytime — no issue is too big or too small.

    Call: 1-800-668-6868
    Text: 686868 (youth)
    Text: 741741 (adults) 

  • Access 24/7 (Adult Mental Health Support)

    Walk-in, phone support, and mental health assessment for adults. 

  • Emergency Shelters

    Many family, women’s, and youth shelters remain open during the holidays.

    If unsure where to go, call 211. 

  • Edmonton Public Library (Select Branches Open)

    EPL offers warm indoor spaces, books, early-learning play areas, public computers, and family programs.

    Check holiday hours:     epl.ca 

  • Edmonton Police Non-Emergency

    For safety concerns that are not emergencies.
    780-423-4567 

Winter break can feel long — but no one has to go through it alone. 
If you’re unsure where to start, call 211 for help navigating the right supports.