Substance Use Support
Tools and resources to take your health into your own hands
What is Harm Reduction?
Harm reduction is the practice of providing tools and resources to folks in our community in an effort to promote their wellbeing. This can be related to substance use, sex, hormone injections, or any combination of these activities.
Tea2go Online ordering form
Play safe and prioritize your health with free harm reduction supplies.
MAX offers safer supplies for you to live, love and party your way.
Use the below form to request the harm reduction supplies you would like delivered to your home. All shipments or drop-offs are done using discrete packaging. Feel free to use a fake name for further confidentiality.
Resources

The Party and Play campaign was developed by the Gay Men's Sexual Health Alliance (GMSH), a provincial program dedicated to improving the sexual health of queer and trans men in Ontario.
The website has information and resources related to PnP, including drug information, best practices for healthcare providers, and stories from community members about their experiences with PnP.
PartyAndPlay.Info
Alcohol (“ethanol”) is a depressant drug in a variety of liquid forms with different alcohol % concentration, like beer, wine and spirits.
Also known as: booze, drink, liquor, etc
How it's consumed:
- Alcohol is ready to be drunk out of the bottle or can, or mixed with other ingredients (juice, pop, syrup, etc) to make mixed drinks/cocktails.
- Alcohol should only be drunk, or can be cooked into meals, which often reduces the intoxicating effect by cooking off the alcohol.
Feels like:
- Low to moderate amounts of alcohol can produce feelings of relaxation, lowered inhibitions, and increased sociability. This is the stage known as being “buzzed” or “tipsy.”
- Larger amounts can cause dizziness, nausea, slurred speech, slow reflexes, sleepiness, impaired judgment, dehydration, and hangovers. This is the stage known as “drunk.”
- Alcohol affects people differently, and can affect the same person differently at different times. Effects can vary depending on body weight, metabolism, tolerance from prior use, food in the stomach, and other physical factors.
You should know:
- In Canada, a standard drink is 17.05 millilitres or 13.45 grams of pure alcohol. This is the equivalent of:
- a bottle of beer (12 oz., 341 ml, 5% alcohol)
- a bottle of cider (12 oz., 341 ml, 5% alcohol)
- a glass of wine (5 oz., 142 ml, 12% alcohol)
- a shot glass of spirits (1.5 oz., 43 ml, 40% alcohol)
- Limit alcohol to no more than:
- 3-4 standard drinks per day
- 10 - 15 standard drinks per week
- 3 - 4 standard drinks on special occasions
- avoid drinking alcohol on some days
- Combining alcohol with other depressants like benzos, opioids, or GHB can quickly become fatal due to their combined effects on heart rate, blood pressure, and respiration.
- Alcohol also has quite a few interactions with non-depressant drugs, like ketamine (this mixture frequently produces severe spins and blackouts), SSRIs (which may make a person much more sensitive to alcohol), cocaine (cocaine and alcohol metabolize to create the toxic byproduct cocaethylene), and many more.
- Overdoses on alcohol are called alcohol poisoning. Alcohol poisoning can cause loss of motor control, vomiting, seizures, blackouts, loss of consciousness, and death under certain circumstances. “Sleeping it off” can be very dangerous if someone has alcohol poisoning.
- Try to always have water or electrolytes with you when you drink. Dehydration significantly worsens hangover symptoms and can be dangerous.
Learn More:
Cannabis (also called marijuana) is best known in its plant form. It contains over 100 cannabinoids, including THC and CBD, as well as aromatic compounds known as terpenes.
Cannabis has strains: Sativa, Indica and Hybrid.
Also known as: weed, green, grass, bud, herb, flower, etc.
How it's consumed:
- Weed is typically smoked as joints, blunts or spliffs, or in pipes or bongs. It can also be vaped, eaten in edibles or drunk in teas or pop.
- Various “concentrates” of cannabis are manufactured, including hash, oil, and kief. These are very potent products (much more so than in it’s bud form)
Feels like:
- In small quantities, many users find cannabis to be both relaxing and stimulating in different ways. Sensory enhancement/sensitivity are common.
- In larger quantities, with stronger strains, or when orally consumed, the effects of cannabis may feel more psychedelic. Users may experience mild hallucinations, anxiety, euphoria, or time dilation.
- Cannabis may or may not increase appetite, depending on the strain.
- Cannabis tends to cause an increase in heart rate, red eyes, and dry mouth.
- Not everyone finds cannabis to be relaxing. Some people are particularly prone to anxiety/paranoia.
You should know:
- It’s a common belief that indica produces more calming effects, while sativa is thought to be energizing. Because hybrids are a mix of the two, it’s not possible to generalize about their effects.
- Cannabidiol (CBD) is another cannabinoid. Unlike THC, CBD does not produce a high or intoxication.
- Smoking anything, including cannabis, can irritate the lungs, throat, and mouth. Using vapes, low-temp dabs, or edibles instead of combustion (smoking) reduces irritation.
- Edibles can take several hours to fully kick in. Always wait at least two hours before eating more.
Learn More:
A stimulant drug. Cocaine is a fine, white to off-white powder.
Also known as: blow, coke, snow
How it's consumed:
- Often divided into small lines or piles (called bumps) of powder and inhaled through a rolled piece of paper such as a bill, business card, paper straw or other materials.
- Can also be injected and sometimes booty-bumped.
Feels like:
- Increased energy, heart rate, blood pressure and body temperature.
- Increased confidence and talkativeness
- Numbness in your face.
You should know:
- Can lead to increased anxiety, panic attacks and paranoia.
- Regular use can lead to dependence.
Cocaine can be cross-contaminated with a range of toxic materials including fentanyl. - An overdose occurs when a drug produces serious adverse effects and life-threatening symptoms.
Learn More:
Crystal methamphetamine is a powerful stimulant that appears as a clear to white, odourless and bitter-tasting crystal-like shards.
Also known as: Tina, meth, crystal
How it’s consumed:
- Can be snorted, swallowed, smoked, booty-bumped or injected (sometimes called slam or slamming)
Feels like:
- Effects of using Tina can vary greatly and depends on things like: the potency of the supply you’re using, your age and weight, how much of it you use, how you use it (smoking, slamming, snorting), the setting of where you’re using it, whether you have pre-existing conditions or experience things like anxiety and if it’s combined with alcohol or other drugs.
- Intense surge or “rush” of euphoria
- Increase heart rate and blood pressure
- Alert, talkative, confident
- No urge to sleep or eat
- Significant urge to be active
Learn More:
A substance used to achieve and maintain an erection, and prolong sexual encounters.
Also known as: Viagra, Cialis, Levitra, Staxyn
How it’s consumed:
- These are usually a pill or a gel that is consumed orally.
- Erectile dysfunction agents are usually prescribed by a medical professional to treat erectile dysfunction but can also be purchased online without any medical advice for the purpose of enhancing sexual experiences.
Feels like:
- Among gay, bisexual, and queer men, erectile dysfunction agents are used with the intention to prolong sexual encounters and improve performance
You should know:
- When erectile dysfunction agents are ingested, the effects can be experienced within 30 minutes and usually last for 2-3 hours.
- Serious adverse effects of erectile dysfunction agents can occur when large amounts of the substance have been used within a short timeframe. Generally, doses should not exceed 100mg within a 24 hour period.
- The most common adverse effect is “priapism” which is a painful erection that lasts longer than 4 hours. After 4 hours, seek medical attention.
Learn More:
A powerful depressant drug. G appears as a clear oily liquid with no smell and can be tasteless or quite bitter or salty. Sometimes G can appear cloudy.
The most common variants of G in circulation in Ontario at the moment include GHB, GBL, and BDO.
Also known as: Gina
How it’s consumed:
- It is usually sold as a liquid in small vials and added to non-alcoholic drinks. G is sometimes available as a white powder or capsule.
Feels like:
- Effects can feel similar to alcohol
- At a lower dose, you may feel more social, relaxed, less inhibited, and horny
- At a higher dose, you may feel sleepy, dizzy, and incoherent.
You should know:
- G has a stacking effect over multiple doses throughout a party or event, which means the second or third dose will have a stronger effect than the first.
- It is widely advised not to mix G with other drugs and especially alcohol. When the substances are combined, the sedative and downer effects are amplified.
- An overdose on G can result in difficulty breathing and may lead to death.
- GHB, GBL, and BDO have different levels of potency, impact, and duration.
- A "common" dose of GHB is 2.5mL to 4mL.
- GBL is stronger than GHB, comes on quicker, and lasts longer. A "common" dose of GBL is 0.9mL.
- BDO resembles GBL and GHB but freezes/thickens in the freezer. A "common" dose is 1mL to 2.5mL.
- The potency of G can vary greatly and the line between feeling good and passing out or overdosing are very small.
- There are reports of guys experiencing sexual assault/ rape while being “asleep” from the effects of using G.
- The effects of G can last up to 4 hours depending on the dose. Wait at least two hours before re-dosing.
Learn More:
Ketamine is a powerful anesthetic that usually comes as a colourless, odorless, tasteless liquid, or white powder or crystal form.
Also known as: K, Special K, Vitamin K
How it’s consumed:
- Ketamine is typically snorted, starts being felt between 5 and 15 minutes, and lasts about one hour.
- A typical dose, sometimes called a "bump", is about 30mg to 60mg. 100mg is usually enough to enter a full dissociative state.
Feels like:
- General physical relaxation, including of the smooth muscles like the anus, a reduction of anxiety or feelings of stress.
- Floating or feeling detached from your body.
- Seeing visual "trails" or mild visual hallucinations, blurred vision.
- Can increase sexual arousal and enhance sexual experiences.
You should know:
- Overdosing on ketamine (a "k-hole") can lead to an out-of-body (sometimes described as "near-death") experience, temporary loss of the ability to speak, or feeling like being "teleported" to another place.
- While ketamine itself doesn't slow breathing or heart rate, combining it with other drugs like alcohol, benzos, or G can cause blackouts, spins, vomiting, or pasing out.
- Ketamine is being researched as a potential treatment for depression.
Learn More:
(3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine)
Commonly sold in capsule form, MDMA increases the release of serotonin (the feel-good chemical) in your system. MDMA can produce intense feelings of euphoria and connection depending on the dose and other factors.
Also known as: ecstasy or molly
How it’s consumed:
- MDMA tends to come as slightly off-white (yellow, purple, or amber) crystals, which can be crushed into a powder. This powder can be put in capsules and swallowed or snorted. Typically referred to as Ecstasy If sold as a pressed pill (usually with a stamp or branding).
Feels like:
- Increased heart rate, blood pressure, body temperature and pupil dilation.
- Reduced appetite and increased energy.
- Euphoria and connection to others.
- You may feel horny.
- Overheating especially if using in crowded places like clubs and raves.
- Teeth grinding.
- Anxiety and panic attacks.
You should know:
- As with all powdered drugs, MDMA can include a range of substances.
- Test your MDMA to know what’s in it. You can pick up testing kits at our office or order them for free.
- Effects typically last 3-5+ hours, sometimes longer.
Learn More:
“Magic mushrooms” is a psychedelic drug consisting of many types of mushroom that contain psilocybin.
Also known as: shrooms, mushrooms
How it’s consumed:
- Mushrooms are usually eaten raw or brewed into tea. They are typically consumed dry, although some people eat them fresh.
- Mushrooms can also be bought as capsules, gummies or chocolate bars or brewed into a tea.
- A typical dose of dried mushrooms is about 1.5 to 2.5 g. A threshold dose (one you can just barely feel) is usually around 0.25 g. Doses of 3.5 g or above are generally considered to be strong.
- On an empty stomach, the full effects should be felt within 30 minutes to an hour. On a full stomach it could take much longer.
- Start with a small dose and don’t take more until at least 1.5 hours (or more) has elapsed.
Feels like:
Mental effects
Magic mushrooms may cause heightened emotions and senses and people may feel happy and creative. They may laugh or giggle a lot and experience a sense of mental and emotional clarity.
- Magic mushrooms can also cause hallucinations and affect people by:
- distorting their sense of reality (they see and hear things that are not there)
- mixing up their senses (they believe they can see music or hear colours)
- altering their sense of time
- Sometimes you can experience a “bad trip” which can include negative mental and physical effects. The mental effects include:
- changes in mood
- light-headedness
- anxiety and panic attacks
- confusion and disorientation
- fear or paranoia
Physical effects
Taking magic mushrooms can produce:
- numbness, particularly in the face
- increased heart rate and blood pressure
- dry mouth, sometimes leading to nausea and vomiting
- muscle weakness and twitching, or convulsions
- exaggerated reflexes
- sweating and high body temperature, often followed by chills and shivering
- loss of urinary control
“Set” and “Setting” are important to consider before do shrooms. “Set” is your mental state (mood, expectations, etc), and “Setting” is the physical and social space you’re consuming in. The better and safer you feel when, where and with whom you’re consuming can reduce the chances of a bad trip.
You should know:
- The amount of psilocybin in mushrooms can vary greatly between varieties, batches, and individual mushrooms, making it difficult to dose precisely.
- Eat a moderate meal two hours before your dose. Tripping on an empty stomach may increase the intensity of the come-up, but can also cause nausea during or after the trip.
- Using magic mushrooms with substances such as cannabis, amphetamines, alcohol, etc., elevates the risks of serious side effects and adverse events.
- For individuals predisposed to or with existing psychiatric conditions, there may be an elevated risk of side effects. This association is still being evaluated.
Learn More:
Alkyl nitrites, known as "poppers", are a class of vasodilating drugs which are often disguised as "room deodorizer" or "video head cleaner" in small, coloured bottles. The most common compounds circulating include amyl nitrite, butyl nitrite, isobutyl nitrite, and isopropyl nitrite, though they all generally have the same effect.
Medically, nitrites are used to treat heart conditions, as they dilate blood vessels and increase blood flow to the heart.
How it’s consumed:
- Poppers are considered an inhalant because the vapours from the liquid are inhaled through the nose, causing a rapid-onset of effects.
- The vapours are typically inhaled gently through one nostril, holding the breath briefly before exhaling.
Feels like:
- Effects are typically felt within a few seconds and last for a few minutes.
- A head rush, flush skin, and the relaxation of smooth muscle tissue, like the anus.
- Can feel euphoric and increased pleasure related to physical touch, including sex.
You should know:
- Swallowing poppers is dangerous and can be fatal. If this happens, call 9-1-1 or the Ontario Poison Centre at 1-844-764-7669.
- Poppers are illegal to distribute in Canada, but not to possess. Because they are not regulated, the exact compounds and ingredients in the products aren't known and aren't tested for safety.
- Getting the liquid on your skin can cause chemical burns. Be careful when inhaling to keep the bottle from touching your nostril or lips. This can be hard if you have lube on your hands, so if it does happen, be sure to wash the poppers off right away.
- Lots of people get headaches from poppers—some right away and others after a few inhalations. If this happens, stop or take an extended break to let your body process it.
- Combining poppers and erectile drugs like Viagra or Cialis can cause a major drop in blood pressure and cause you to pass out or go into shock.
- Combining poppers and stimulants like cocaine or meth can increase your heart rate or cause issues with your heart and blood pressure.
Learn More:

Looking for harm reduction materials? These programs can help get you the safer supplies you want to live, love and party your way.
TEA 2 GO - MAX OTTAWA
Phone: 613-701-6555
Email: harmreduction@maxottawa.ca
Address: 400 Cooper St, Unit 9004, Ottawa, ON, K2P 2H8
Hours: Wednesdays to Fridays from 12:00 to 19:00.
Languages: English and French
This program dispenses safer partying, safer sex, and safer hormone injection supplies. Community members can fill out the order form online and have their supplies either by pick-up, mail, or delivery. Community members can also come to the MAX office and collect supplies any time during operating hours.
NESI VAN - SOMERSET WEST COMMUNITY HEALTH CENTRE
Phone: 613-761-0003
Address: 55 Eccles St
Hours: Mondays to Fridays 5pm-11:30pm
The Needle Exchange & Safer Inhalation (NESI) Program offers harm reduction services for people who use drugs, including safer inhalation and injection supplies, collection and disposal of used equipment, and peer support in a non-judgmental environment. Harm Reduction Outreach workers provide harm reduction health education and support, including informal case management according to the needs of each client in collaboration with existing supports, meeting clients where they are at and providing accessible, point-of-contact supports. Community Workers are staff with lived or living experience of substance use who provide peer support and services within the program.
CENTRETOWN COMMUNITY HEALTH CENTRE
Phone: 613-233-4443
Address: 420 Cooper Street Ottawa, ON K2P 2N6
Hours: Monday to Fridays 8:30am to 4:30pm
Languages: English and French
Safe injection, inhalation and safe sexual practices supplies. Referral, health training and support. In French and English. Drop-in. If the door is closed, just ask at the front desk and a community support worker can provide supportive & confidential services in a private room.
SANDY HILL COMMUNITY HEALTH CENTRE - ADDICTIONS AND MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES
Phone: 613-789-8941
Address: 221 Nelson St, Ottawa, ON, K1N 1C7
Hours: Monday to Thursdays 8:30am to 4:30pm, Fridays from 8:30am to 4pm
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible
Languages: English and French
Integrated community health and social services * confidential and personalized addiction and concurrent disorders services for individuals concerned about their use of alcohol, drugs or gambling and co-occurring mental health concerns*
Assessment * treatment planning * referral * support * follow-up appointments * out-patient counselling for clients experiencing barriers to access community services
Looking for resources to help with managing or stopping substance use, substance use disorder and concurrent disorders (substance use disorder and mental illness)? Take a look at the resources below.
REFERRAL/NAVIGATION SERVICES
MONTFORT RENAISSANCE - SERVICE ACCESS TO RECOVERY
Phone: 613-241-5202
Email: triage@mri.ca
Address: 338 Montreal Rd, Suite 101, Ottawa, ON, K1L 6B3
Hours: Monday to Fridays 8am to 4pm
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible
Languages: English and French
Conducts assessments and referral planning with people who are concerned about their substance use * information and support to people concerned about their loved one’s substance use, whether it be a friend, a family member or a spouse * can provide guidance, support and help the clients navigate the addictions system * direct referral to addictions treatment
THE ROYAL OTTAWA - RAPID ACCESS ADDICTION MEDICINE (RAAM) SERVICES
Phone: 613-722-6521 ext 6508
Address: 1145 Carling Ave, Ottawa, ON, K1Z 7K4
Hours: Monday to Fridays 8:30am to 4:30pm
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible
Languages: English
This services for people who may have concerns about their alcohol and/or opioid use. They offer:
reviewing your treatment goals with you,
providing medication(if needed) for opioid and/or alcohol problems,
providing brief individual counselling, and
connecting you with the right community resources for your needs.
Intake is done over the phone, and assessment is done over the phone or by video chat.
OUT-PATIENT PROGRAMS
These programs are for folks that are going to stay home while they seek treatment.
THE OTTAWA MISSION
Phone: 613-234-1144 (24 hours)
Email: mission@ottawamission.com
Website: www.ottawamission.com
Address: 35 Waller St, Ottawa, ON, K1N 7G4
Hours: Open 24 hours a day, seven days a week
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible
Languages: English
The Day Program: Out-patient program for men in the community struggling with addiction issues. * includes morning groups and afternoon drop-in counselling *.participants must be sober the days they attend
THE ROYAL OTTAWA MENTAL HEALTH CENTRE: SUBSTANCE USE AND CONCURRENT DISORDERS PROGRAM
Phone : 613-722-6521 ext 6508.
Website: www.theroyal.ca
Address: 1145 Carling Ave, Ottawa, ON, K1Z 7K4
Hours: Monday to Fridays 8:30am to 4:30pm
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible
Languages: English
Assessment, individualized therapy and follow-up for those with concurrent disorders (addiction and mental illness)
Concurrent Disorders Program * Also available on a day treatment basis
Assessment and Stabilization Unit
Early Intervention Program: 613-722-6521 ext 6122
Outpatient Assessment and Detoxification
Community Outreach for Concurrent Disordered Clients: 613-722-6521 ext 6130
Outpatient Clinic: Designed to introduce clients to basic concepts about addiction through group discussion, lectures, videos and tapes
School-based program for at-risk youth (Early Intervention)
LIVE-IN PROGRAMS
These programs are for folks looking to live in the treatment facility while in recovery.
THE OTTAWA MISSION
Phone: 613-234-1144 (24 hours)
Email: mission@ottawamission.com
Website: www.ottawamission.com
Address: 35 Waller St, Ottawa, ON, K1N 7G4
Hours: Open 24 hours a day, seven days a week
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible
Languages: English
Stabilization: Abstinence-based residential program for adult males to stabilize their lives and their addictive behaviour before entering a formal treatment program and/or safe housing.
LifeHouse Program: Five-month residential addiction treatment facility.
THE SALVATION ARMY
Phone: 613-241-1573
Email: info@ottawaboothcentre.org
Website: www.ottawaboothcentre.org
Address: 175 George St, Ottawa, ON, K1N 5W5
Hours: Open 24 hours a day, seven days a week
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible
Languages: English
Long-term residential treatment program for men with alcohol and/or drug addiction related problems.
Individual and group counselling * classes focusing on anger management * relapse prevention * abuse * grieving/loss * boundaries * relationships * spirituality and life-skills * continuing care * chaplaincy services * capacity of 24 beds * length of stay is four months
MÉTIS AND INUIT PROGRAMS
MÉTIS NATION OF ONTARIO - ABORIGINAL HEALING AND WELLNESS PROGRAM
Phone: 613-549-1674 ext 307 (local), 1-800-263-4889 (toll free)
Crisis line: 1-877-767-7572
Email: video@metisnation.org
Website: www.metisnation.org
Address: 66 Slater St, Unit 1100, Ottawa, ON, K1T 5H1
Hours: Open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
Accessibility: Partially accessible
Languages: English and French
Case management to ensure you receive the right service at the right time for the duration of your involvement with the Program
Mental Health and Addictions assessment which includes digital dependency, gaming, and gambling support
Individual counselling for crisis, trauma, stress, anxiety, depression, addiction, anger management, digital dependency, and gambling
Couples counselling
Family therapy and parenting coaching
Addictions counselling
Other psychiatry, psychology, and psychotherapy services
TUNGASUVVINGAT INUIT - DAY COUNSELLING PROGRAM
Phone: 613-565-5885 ext 201
Email: mstevens@tiontario.ca
Website: www.tungasuvvingatinuit.ca
Address: 1071 Richmond Rd W, Ottawa, ON, K2B 6R2
Hours: Mondays to Fridays, 9am to 4pm
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible
Languages: English and Inuktitut
Day Counselling Program
The focus of the program is to be able to provide community-based counselling services that both reflects the culture and healing from an Inuit perspective. The staff draw from ongoing training and years of experience working in the community.
The program has two Inuktitut speaking staff. The staff have worked with a variety of challenges from grief and loss, to trauma and addiction.
Healing
Healing is often complicated. It can be as simple as sharing a personal story which gives meaning. This meaning can provide new opportunities for gaining confidence, healthy choices, and an overall sense of well-being.
Depending on the individual’s needs, the counselling sessions can be one individual session where one just needs to talk, can be six sessions or more, or can make referrals to other internal programs or external agencies. The length of time of the sessions will up to the individual.
YOUTH PROGRAMS
RIDEAUWOOD ADDICTION AND FAMILY SERVICES
Phone: 613-724-4881
Email: admin@rideauwood.org
Website: www.rideauwood.org
Address: 312 Parkdale Ave, Ottawa, ON, K1Y 4X5
Hours: Mondays to Fridays, 9am to 9pm
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible
Languages: English and French
Ages: 12-24
Confidential, therapeutic, substance abuse program * comprehensive assessment * individual and group counselling * education
Motivational Substance Abuse Counselling: Weekly or bi-weekly ongoing assessment and individual counselling for personal challenges related to drug and alcohol use
Continuing Care Program: Weekly or bi-weekly Individual and group counselling * other treatment modalities sometimes integrated including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Relapse Prevention and Traumatic Stress counselling.
LE CAP - DÉPENDANCES - SERVICES AUX JEUNES ET FAMILLES
Phone: 613-789-2240 (local), 1-877-654-0990 (toll-free)
Crisis line: 613-260-2360 or 1-877-377-7775
Email: rjeunes@centrelecap.ca
Website: centrelecap.ca/
Address: 150 Montreal Road, Suite 300, Ottawa, Ontario, K1L 8H2
Hours: Mondays to Fridays, 8:30am to 4:30pm
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible
Languages: French
Ages: Under 24 years old
Outpatient and day program or residential program for Francophone youth with substance abuse issues, cyber addictions, and concurrent disorders (addictions and mental health)
Professional evaluations * individual, group and family counselling * support groups and counselling for parents of addicted youth * day-program, with an academic component, for eight youths * support for youth who have completed a residential treatment program * support for youth dealing with the consequences of the drug or alcohol addiction of a family member or a friend * School Prevention Program * STOP program: Support for smokers who wish to quit smoking
Residential Treatment Center with academic component for youth with substance abuse issues, cyber addictions, and concurrent disorders (length varies between 6-12 weeks)
SUPPORT GROUPS
These groups are for folks looking to learn and be supported by peers in a group setting around recovery.
NARCOTICS ANONYMOUS GAY MEN IN RECOVERY
Email: gmrnaottawa@gmail.com
Ottawa Narcotics Anonymous http://www.ottawana.org/meet.html
Specific resources for Crystal Meth:
CRYSTAL METH ANONYMOUS - TORONTO AND MONTREAL OR VIRTUAL
website: https://www.the519.org/programs/crystal-meth-anonymous
Online CMA meetings: https://www.crystalmeth.org/cma-meetings/online-cma-meetings.html
ADDITIONAL TREATMENT AND RECOVERY PROGRAMS
More treatment and recovery services are available at https://www.champlainhealthline.ca/listServices.aspx?id=10095
These sites are places where community members can consume their substance with medical professionals in proximity to respond to overdoses or drug poisonings. The sites also carry harm reduction supplies in case supplies are needed to be able to consume safely. They often have other substance use and health supports and programs available, so it advised to check out their sites and contact them if you have any questions.
SUPERVISED CONSUMPTION SERVICES
Phone: 613-580-6744 ext 29047
Website: https://www.ottawapublichealth.ca/
Address: 179 Clarence St, Ottawa. ON, K1N 5P7
Hours: Mondays to Fridays, 9am to 5pm
SITE MOBILE VAN
Phone: 613-232-3232
Hours: Open 7 days a week, 5pm to 11pm
Ottawa Inner City Health Shepherds of Good Hope (SIS)
Phone: 613-241-6494
Email: reception@sghottawa.com
Website: https://www.sghottawa.com/the-trailer/
Address: 256 King Edward Ave, Ottawa, ON, K1N 7M1
Hours: Open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible
Languages: English and French
SANDY HILL COMMUNITY HEALTH CENTRE
Phone: 613-569-3488 ext 2101
Website: https://www.shchc.ca/
Address: 221 Nelson St, Ottawa, ON, K1N 1C7
Hours: Open 7 days a week, 8am to 8pm
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible
Languages: English and French
SOMERSET WEST COMMUNITY HEALTH CENTRE OVERDOSE PREVENTION SERVICES
Phone: 613-238-8210 ext 2369
Email: emailcommunications@swchc.on.ca
Website: https://www.swchc.on.ca/programs/supervised-consumption-and-treatment-service
Address: 55 Eccles St
Hours: Open 7 days a week, 8am to 4pm (last call is 3:30pm)
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible
Languages: English
Women's shelters closest to the MAX Office
CORNERSTONE HOUSING FOR WOMEN
Phone: 613-254-6584
Email: info@cornerstonewomen.ca
Website: www.cornerstonewomen.ca
2 downtown locations:
172 O'Connor St (approx a 5-minute walk from the MAX Office)
515 Maclaren St (approx a 6-minute walk from the MAX Office)
Men's shelters closest to the MAX Office
THE OTTAWA MISSION
Phone: 613-234-1144 (24 hours) or
Email: mission@ottawamission.com
Website: www.ottawamission.com
Address: 35 Waller St (approx a 20-minute walk from the MAX office)
THE SALVATION ARMY
Phone: 613-241-2818
Email: info@ottawaboothcentre.org
Website: www.ottawaboothcentre.org
Address: 171 George St (approx a 9-minute walk from the MAX Office)
Trans and Gender Diverse Inclusive Shelters
SHEPHERDS OF GOOD HOPE
Women's Shelter
Address: 256 King Edward Ave, (approx 31-minute walk from the MAX office)
Phone: 613-789-8210
Email: reception@sghottawa.com
Website: https://www.sghottawa.com/
Men's Shelter
Address: 233 Murray St, (approx 31-minute walk from the MAX office)
Phone: 613-789-8210
Email: reception@sghottawa.com
Website: https://www.sghottawa.com/
Young Men’s Shelters
Young Men’s Emergency and Transitional Housing Services or Youth Services Bureau of Ottawa Emergency Shelter
FOR YOUNG MEN AGED 12 TO 20
Phone: 613-907-8975
Email: youngmenshelter@ysb.on.ca
Website: https://www.ysb.ca/services/community-and-housing-services/housing-and-shelter/young-mens-shelters/
YOUTH SERVICES BUREAU DROP-IN
For young men aged 16-20
Open Monday to Friday 12:30pm to 6pm and Saturday and Sunday from 1pm and 6pm.
Phone: 613-241-7788 ext 300
Address: 147 Besserer St
Email: besserer@ysb.ca
Website: https://www.ysb.ca/services/community-and-housing-services/drop-in/
Additional Shelters can be found here.
If you, or someone you know or see, is living without permanent housing and using public or private property as shelter, you can call 311 and ask for Transportation.
This connects you with the Salvation Army Street Outreach Van, who can come and provide social services to your location. They can provide assessment, offer transportation to a shelter, or help arrange other alternatives if someone is needing immediate shelter.
They will not forcibly remove people from a location. In order to have someone removed, you would have to dial 911, although this is an absolute last resort and should only be done if the situation escalates.
SALVATION ARMY STREET OUTREACH
Dial 311
Hours of Operation are 11am to 3am, 7 days a week.

Looking for harm reduction materials? These programs can help get you the safer supplies you want to live, love and party your way.
ENTRE HOMMES
Phone: 819-776-2727
Email: entrehommes@lebras.qc.ca
Website: http://entrehommes.org/
Address: 109 rue Wright, suite 003, Gatineau Québec, J8X 2G7 (Entrance on rue Saint-Jacques)
Hours: Mondays to Thursdays, 8:30am to 12pm and 1pm to 5:30pm and Mondays to Fridays 8:30am to 12pm and 1pm to 5pm
Languages: French
Harm reduction materials available in person during operating hours.
CIPTO - ORGANISME EN RÉDUCTION DES MÉFAITS
Phone: 819-770-7249 (local), 1-866-778-4372 (toll-free)
Email: accueil@cipto.org
Website: http://www.cipto.qc.ca/
Address: 92, rue St-Jacques, Gatineau, Québec, J8X 2Z2
Hours: Mondays to Fridays, 8:30am to 12pm and 1pm to 4:30pm
Languages: French
Harm reduction materials are available in person during operating hours.
Looking for resources to help with managing or stopping substance use, substance use disorder and concurrent disorders (substance use disorder and mental illness)? Take a look at the resources below.
CISSS DE L’OUTAOUAIS - ADDICTION SERVICES
Phone: 819-776-5584
Address:25 Rue Saint-François, Gatineau (Hull), QC J9A 1B1
Hours: Open 7 days a week, from 9am to 5pm
Languages: French and English
ADDICTION ASSESSMENT PROGRAM
The Regional Specialized Assessment Program in addiction includes the request for service analysis activities as well as specialized assessment in addiction with guidance. This program makes it possible to assess eligibility for addiction services.
The regional specialized addiction assessment program is intended for people with a substance use and/or pathological gambling problem as well as their loved ones.
REHABILITATION PROGRAM
Specialized addiction rehabilitation services are provided to people with alcohol, drug, gambling and addiction problems. These accompaniment and support services are also for the people around them.
SUBSTANCE ABUSE PROGRAM
The detoxification service is provided on an outpatient basis, with accommodation or through substitution treatment. It includes the management of intoxication and withdrawal episodes. The choice of detoxification type is based on the person's clinical needs. Three levels of care are offered in relation to withdrawal management: outpatient detoxification, residential detoxification and opioid dependence treatment (substitution treatment). The detoxification service is intended for people who, because of their addiction, require intoxication management or management of withdrawal symptoms.
External detoxification: offered to users at mild to moderate risk of withdrawal.
Detoxification with accommodation: offered to users with risks associated with moderate to severe withdrawal.
Substitution: available to users with opioid dependence. The service focuses on the prescription, dosage and monitoring of substitution medication.
YOUTH PROGRAMS
CISSS DE L’OUTAOUAIS - YOUTH ADDICTION SERVICES
Phone: 819-776-5584
Address: 25 Rue Saint-François, Gatineau (Hull), QC J9A 1B1
Hours: Open 7 days a week, from 9am to 5pm
Languages: French and English
Ages: 12-18
Youth addiction services are targeted at youths aged 12 to 18 with substance abuse problems and their family members.
Types of services offered:
- One-one-one and group meetings
- Motivational groups
- Detoxification service
- Internal rehabilitation provides a wide variety of programs aimed at reducing harm.
SUPPORT GROUPS
These groups are for folks looking to learn and be supported by peers in a group setting around recovery.
NARCOTIQUES ANONYMES DE L'OUTAOUAIS
Phone: 1(855)544-6362.
Email: info@na-outaouais.org
Website: https://na-outaouais.org/
Please email Mat Adams at m.adams@maxottawa.ca for more information.
Shelter programs provide a variety of services for people living without permanent housing, from housing programs, food assistance, counseling, treatment and recovery, job assistance and more. If you are looking for a specific service, contact the organizations listed below to see what they offer.
CISSS DE L’OUTAOUAIS - SERVICES FOR THE HOMELESS
Phone: 819-776-5584
Address: 85 Rue Saint-Rédempteur, Gatineau, QC J8X 4E6
Hours: Open 7 days a week, from 9am to 5pm
Languages: French and English
“Interventions pour mieux agir en exclusion sociale” (IMAGES) (Interventions to best fight social exclusion) is an assessment and intervention service aimed at promoting the integration of homeless people into the community. Its objectives are to:
- prevent degradation and improve the living conditions of the homeless
- support the clinical plan, the professionals, and the community resources working with the homeless
- support the consolidation and local capacity building
The service is for the homeless or those at high risk of becoming homeless, especially those whose resource networks have been depleted, or whose health profiles are generally associated with multiple problems (HIV/AIDS, alcoholism, drug addiction, mental health disorders, precarious housing conditions, etc.).
CIPTO MOBILE ROAMING TEAM (EMI)
Phone: 819-770-7249 (local), 1-866-778-4372 (toll-free)
Email: accueil@cipto.org
Website: http://www.cipto.qc.ca/equipe-mobile-itinerance/
Address: 92, rue St-Jacques, Gatineau, Québec, J8X 2Z2
Hours: Mondays to Fridays, 8:30am to 12pm and 1pm to 4:30pm
Languages: French
A (EMI) is composed of stakeholders that aims to support people experiencing homelessness or at risk of being, who need support to improve their conditions and their quality of life. The team's intervention is adapted to the needs of the people supported, whether to support the search for housing, facilitate access to various resources, offer monitoring and coordination of services, or even for support.
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