Resources
Tea2Go 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.
Gender Affirming Care Toolkit
Whether you're navigating your own transition or supporting others, you find guidance on medical, legal, and psychosocial aspects, plus resources for care providers here. This resource was developed in partnership with the Centretown Community Health Centre.
Articles
Pop-Up Mpox Vaccine Clinic
July 11, 2025
MAX is working with Ottawa Public Health to host two pop-up immunization clinics for mpox. The clinics are open to…
Community Call: Apply to be a Co-Pilot
June 27, 2025
MAX is recruiting volunteers for our Co-Pilot program. Co-Pilots will be a trusted presence in the community night scene, offering support and resources to partygoers and event organizers.
Community Call: Apply to be a Tea2Go Delivery Volunteer
June 4, 2025
MAX Ottawa has been working to improve the health and wellbeing of queer and trans individuals in the National Capital…
Appel à la communauté : Devenez membre du conseil d’administration de MAX
May 23, 2025
mai 2025 23 mai 2025 | Date limite : lundi 7 juillet 2025 MAX Ottawa santé communautaire : Champion de…
Community Call: Join the MAX Board of Directors
May 23, 2025
May 2025 May 23, 2025 | Deadline to apply: Monday, July 7, 2025 MAX Ottawa Community Health: Championing the health…
Long-Acting Injectable PrEP Now Covered By Most Insurance Providers
May 9, 2025
You shouldn’t have to break the bank to access PrEP.
Request For Proposals: Website Development and Maintenance
April 9, 2025
Posting Date: Wednesday, April 9, 2025 Proposal Submission Deadline: Wednesday, April 30, 2025 Introduction MAX Ottawa Community Health is a…
Submitting events to the List? Check this out first!
January 17, 2025
An in-depth guide to submitting events to MAX Ottawa’s events calendar, the List.
MAX Ottawa Joins the Ontario AIDS Network
November 18, 2024
MAX Ottawa takes an important step in its work on HIV by becoming a member of the Ontario AIDS Network…
Community Directory
Whether you’re looking to join a GBT2Q+ team or a support group in the Ottawa area, here you will find a list of community resources for queer men as well as trans and non-binary people.
- Children (2)
- Community Group (15)
- Counselling (6)
- Employment (1)
- Families (6)
- General (5)
- Housing (3)
- Mental Health (9)
- Seniors (1)
- Sex Work (0)
- Sexual Health (4)
- Social Service (7)
- Sports & Fitness (12)
- Trans Specific Resources (3)
- University and College (3)
- Workshops and Education (2)
- Youth Group (6)
To provide support, prevention, education and outreach services from an integrated anti-racism anti-oppression social justice framework that promotes the holistic wellbeing of those living with, affected by, impacted by and at risk of HIV/AIDS in Ottawa.
The lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer (LGBTQ) community at Algonquin College includes students, staff, and faculty from diverse backgrounds. The Positive Space campaign celebrates this diversity and recognizes the responsibility of our community to work toward being a safe and accepting environment for persons of all gender identities and sexual orientations.
Around the Rainbow provides education, counselling and support services to 2SLGBTQI+ families and individuals. Our objective is always to improve 2SLGBTQI+ inclusion in all environments.
In 2013, two very passionate, very ambitious, and very-in-over-their-heads people opened Bread by Us. Over the years, they built a business brick by brick. Their dream was to build a sense of belonging and camaraderie within their team, two ingredients they felt were crucial to a resilient business that could stand the test of time.
Our breads are made with high-quality unbleached, untreated flours. Most of our breads are made with organic flour. We specialize in sourdough breads, and most of our breads are dairy and egg-free. Simple & Delicious.
Website: https://www.breadbyus.com/
Bruce House is a community-based organization providing housing, compassionate care and support in Ottawa for people living with HIV and AIDS, based on the belief that everyone has the right to live and die with dignity.
The Gender and Sexuality Resource Centre (GSRC) aims to be a safe(r) space for Carleton students of all gender identities and sexual orientations through education, advocacy, and support. Use ext. 3723 when you call.
Offer a range of social services (counselling and support services) in English and French to all residents of Ottawa. Counselling services are provided to children (6-12) and adolescents, adults, couples and families. Use ext. 0 when you call.
Gay Realty Network is one of the oldest directories of gay real estate agents, mortgage brokers, home inspectors, lenders, and title companies on the web.
Through her research, Prof. Daphna Joel shows that even though sex-related genes and hormones affect the brain, the human brain is neither male nor female. The Gender Mosaic Questionnaire, is an interactive resource for understanding your own, and other people’s gender.
Hello Dolly Pastries (HDP) is a small locally owned and operated bakery located in the vibrant Hintonburg area located at 992 Wellington St W. Our cozy storefront is not only a haven for delectable treats but also a reflection of our commitment to inclusivity and diversity.
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Owned by a neurodivergent and a proud member of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, HDP embraces and celebrates the uniqueness of individuals. We take great pride in employing seven talented individuals, with a particular focus on providing opportunities for those within the 2SLGBTQIA+ community and neurodivergent individuals. Creating a safe and welcoming environment for everyone is of utmost importance to us.
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At HDP, we not only prioritize the well-being of our employees but also ensure they receive a livable wage. Our goal is to foster a sense of security and stability, allowing them to thrive both at work and in their personal lives.
Website: https://hellodollypastries.ca/
Kind (formerly known as Pink Triangle Services) is dedicated to providing a diverse, protective, and nonjudgmental environment for individuals to explore and understand their gender and sexuality through their intersecting identities and experiences. Kind offers peer-run discussion groups, counseling services, and educational programs in a diverse and sex-positive environment.
The Lavender Group is a closed, LGBTQIA+/Queer-affirming online Alcoholics Anonymous meeting that meets weekly, on Tuesdays 8 PM ET via Zoom.
Our helpline is staffed by peer support volunteers, who are all 2SLGBTQ+ youth aged 16-29, living across Ontario. They aren't professional counsellors, but are trained in active listening, anti-racism, harm reduction, and topics related to gender and sexuality. Whether you're questioning your identity, dealing with family, feeling lonely, or just want to chat, we're here for it.
Get in touch with a peer support volunteer; Sunday to Friday, 4:00PM to 9:30PM EST.
- By Chat (4pm-9:30pm): https://www.youthline.ca/helpline/peer-support-helpline/
- By Text (4pm-9:30pm): (647)-694-4275
- By email: askus@youthline.ca
Pretty much Little Jo’s is a shop built on community and friendship. We are so lucky to have so much good support and love from our neighbourhood and patrons. It’s priority for us to create a safe, inclusive space for the folks who visit our shop and help us grow. We love ya!
Ohhhhh ya, we’re also a bunch of vegans. Everything we do is vegan. We have a strict no food or body shaming policy and everyone is welcomed to feel good about what they eat when they are here!! Find baked goods, coffee bar, local vegan grocery and handmade goods!
Our shop has a ramp by stop gap to enter. We offer masks upon entry if needed/wanted. We have a small seating section in the front with a mix of stools and larger chairs with no arms. Unfortunately our washroom is not accessible.
Website: https://www.littlejoberrys.com/
Online Alcoholics Anonymous meeting for LGBTQ+ people.
A vibrant recreational Ottawa-based softball league for 2SLGBTQI+ individuals and their allies dedicated to fostering skill development in a fun, secure, and social environment, welcoming players of all skill levels.
The Ottawa Bears is a group of Bears and Bear admirers located in the Ottawa, Ontario and Gatineau, Québec region of Canada. The purpose of the group is to organize get togethers and social events for the bear community, to promote a more positive body image among large and/or furry gay men and to promote bear culture within the gay and straight communities of the greater Ottawa region. We welcome people of all types –big or small, furry or smooth, bear or admirer– who like the company of bears.
The Ottawa Birdies aims to create a welcoming, inclusive community for badminton players of all skill levels. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a beginner, the Birdies offer a friendly environment to improve, compete, and enjoy the game.
The Ottawa Date Squares is a gay and lesbian friendly club open to absolutely everyone in the National Capital region and elsewhere who wishes to learn modern square dancing in a friendly, welcoming, sociable, fun and active setting.
Ottawa Frontrunners is a running and walking club for members of the Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Transgendered (GLBT) community and friends. Located in Ottawa, Ontario, it is Canada’s national capital chapter of International Frontrunners. We have runners of various ages and skill levels and typically have groups going between 5 and 10 km (3 and 6 miles) at various paces. Walkers are also members of the club, consisting usually of runners on the injury list and partners or friends of runners.
A common interest group for lovers of plants, gardens, & trees in Ottawa.
Choeur gai d’Ottawa Gay Men’s Chorus is a local, independent, charitable organization the mission of which is to perform quality choral music and to contribute to the gay community.
OGRC is more than just a running club—it's a community where everyone is encouraged to be themselves, push their limits, and support one another. Our weekly group runs are designed to bring people together and create a sense of belonging. We believe that running is not just about fitness, but also about the connections we make along the way.
Website: https://ogrc.ca/
The Ottawa Knights is a Brotherhood which strives to preserve the Leather culture through leadership, camaraderie, education, and Community service.
Ottawa Pride Hockey is a new pick-up hockey group in Ottawa that was created to allow members of all genders and sexual orientations to play in a safe and supportive environment.
We focus our work on organizations serving seniors such as residential care facilities, service agencies, palliative care services, and homecare agencies. The goal is to encourage/advocate for LGBT-positive spaces and cultural competence within these agencies and facilities. OSPN’s training team supports these efforts by providing workshops and professional development for staff, students and volunteers as requested.
Ottawa Time Out Hiking Club is a hiking club for members of the gay, lesbian, bisexual and trans community. Trail destinations are mostly parks in Eastern Ontario and West Quebec ranging from nearby Gatineau Park to as far as the Adirondack Mountains in New York state.
The Ottawa Trans Library houses a collection of books by trans authors, as well as historical, important and interesting works on trans issues and people. You can browse the collection online here. In addition to the lending collection, there is a free library of books unrelated to trans issues.
We are a social space in addition to being a library. You don’t need to borrow a book. Oppressed people have always needed spaces where they can be safe, gather, meet new people and talk. We have reading stations and tables for studying or socializing. Come enjoy a free coffee, browse the collection, or just swing by to say hello!
Website: https://ottawatranslibrary.ca/
The Ottawa Wolves form a Rugby Football Club for men and women in Canada’s National Capital Region. The Club was founded by Carl Pilon and Jay Smidt in 2008 with the mission to promote and encourage participation in rugby among those who have traditionally been under-represented in the game. The team members are predominantly part of the LGBTQA community, but diverse in its make-up, and inclusive of everyone.
PFLAG provides an open and welcoming environment for individuals, parents and families to meet and discuss how to navigate the emotional, societal and practical challenges of living a full and satisfying life in appreciation of the individual expression and experience of sexual identity or sexual orientation.
Pride Capital Volleyball (PCV) is a volunteer, non-profit volleyball organization that promotes volleyball and the well-being of the 2SLGBTQ+ community of the National Capital Region by offering fun, inclusive, and positive spaces for 2SLGBTQ+ people and allies of all skill levels.
Step into a sanctuary where individuals of all gender and orientations can embrace their true selves without fear or judgment. Probe is a hub to find genuine connections and discover consensual exploration, fostering a community and lifestyle where everyone feels seen, heard, and celebrated.
Website: https://www.probeottawa.ca/
The Public Service Pride Network (PSP) unites GLBT employees of the Government of Canada across the country.
This is a social networking forum, for use by qtpoc++ for building solidarity in the Ottawa-Gatineau area. We are building an inclusive community by creating a space for ourselves in this neighbourhood. This is the place where you can shout out for someone to join you for tea or a walk, or at a community event, when you’re tired of feeling alone in the hegemony.
A safe, fun, inclusive space for queer people in Ottawa to get together-on bikes! All levels/no drop rides!
A support space for all members of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community in matters regarding end of life, death, dying, and grief.
We are an Ottawa-based network of queer identified individuals who are committed to supporting our community by throwing awesome parties and community events. Our vision is to host events that unite Ottawa’s queer and social justice networks, build community, and support artists and not-for-profit groups. We do this by employing our collective passions, creativity, and skills to raise awareness for Ottawa-based grassroots organizations.
Queering613 is a volunteer-run grassroots community love project committed to connecting LGBTQ+ folks to Ottawa’s queer and trans cultures, organizations and issues. We want to be a community space for connecting, getting together, making, amplifying and learning about Ottawa’s LGBTQ loves and faves, it’s exciting happenings and the issues nearest and dearest to our queer hearts.
* Social group for LGBTQ+* youth, 12-18 years old
* Safe(r) space
* Hangout and meet new people
* Access resources and gain support from staff
* Youth and their families can get connected to community resources and services
* Inclusion, belonging, respect
Every Thursday from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. 170 Castlefrank Rd. (Lion Dick Brule Community Centre) Kanata, ON
Ottawa’s GLBT Curling League. Formed in 2002. Membership is open to GLBT Ottawa community with any level of curling ability. Individuals are welcome to join as a full member or as a spare. Returning members are given the first chance to renew their membership in the league.
The Ottawa Rideau Speedeaus d’Ottawa is a swim team with a difference: it is primarily a gay, lesbian, bisexual and trans swim team, but welcomes members from the straight community too. Our main purpose is to help members reach their swimming goals, be they for competition, recreation or fitness.
Are you looking for a creative, sex-positive space? Sensorium Studio offers a welcoming and inclusive environment for creatives, educators, and communities to bring their visions to life. Whether you're planning a photoshoot, pop-up market or special event, our unique space is designed to inspire.
The Spaniel's Tale Bookstore is a queer-owned independent bookstore in Ottawa, Ontario, serving Hintonburg, Wellington Village, Westboro, Mechanicsville, Little Italy, and beyond. We offer a curated selection of contemporary fiction, non-fiction, and children’s books, as well as greeting cards and other gifts.
We're located on the unceded, unsurrendered Territory of the Anishinaabe Algonquin Nation whose presence here reaches back to time immemorial, and we recognize the Anishinaabe as the past, present, and future stewards of this land.
Website: https://thespanielstale.ca/
Spectrum is an LGBTQ+ community youth group (ages 12-25) held each Tuesday night from 6-8pm at Youth Services Bureau (147 Besserer Street). We are a by-youth for-youth space offering a variety of programming including educational workshops, group discussions, art collaborations, counseling, and peer mentoring. We welcome those who are LGBTQ+ identified as well as people from LGBTQ+ families and other members of the LGBTQ+ community.
The Ten Oaks Project is a charitable, volunteer-driven organization that engages and connects children and youth from LGBTQ+ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, two-spirit, queer) communities.
The Grove is a Queer, Black and People of Colour owned business located in Chinatown South, the traditional and unceded territory of the Algonquin Anishinaabe. It's a safe, welcoming, and inclusive collective art space that houses creativity, empowerment, and mutual respect for queer and IBPOC artists and allies.
No referral is required for the Walk-In Counselling Clinic. You will be assisted, with no appointment, on a first-come, first-serve basis during our Walk-In Counselling Clinic hours. The Walk-In Counselling Clinic is open to Ontario residents within the greater Champlain region.
The Walk-in Counselling Clinic offers counselling services in English, French, Arabic, Somali, Cantonese and Mandarin at a variety of different locations. Clinic hours are available at different locations each day of the week, including evenings and weekends.
Tone Cluster is a vibrant musical ensemble that contributes both musically to the Ottawa arts scene and socially as part of Ottawa’s 2SLGBTQIA+ community.
Rainbow Health Ontario and our FAQs working group gathered these answers in response to questions we are commonly asked by trans and non-binary folks in Ontario. The questions and answers were designed for Ontario residents over the age of 18.
The Pride Centre is an independent, student-run service that strives to promote and represent a culture of affirmation through the celebration of individual diversity and choice in all areas of life. We address various equity sectors (anti-ableism, anti-racism, anti-colonialism, etc.) with a core focus on the intersections of gender and sexuality topics at the University of Ottawa. By hosting events, programming, offering resources and advocating for students, we look to create an environment of respect and acceptance with our communities and allies.
Venus Envy is an award-winning sex shop and bookstore with something for everyone. Anyone who’s turned off by traditional sex shops will find Venus Envy a welcoming and informative place to get cool and sexy stuff.
In addition to offering great products and services, Wicked Wanda’s is also very proud to offer a variety of workshops, held on the premises. These workshops cover the full range of sexual interests from the Joys of Sex Toys to Anal Sex to Bondage 101. They are designed to be stress-free so that inhibitions can be left at the door. Participants can learn in a relaxing and fun environment how to further their sexual enjoyment.
Are you looking for a swingers club or a nudist beach? A BDSM munch or party? Maybe a weekend getaway or a singles cruise? At Wicked Wanda’s we can answer your questions and point you in the right direction!
The Youth Services Bureau of Ottawa serves youth aged 12 and older. We focus on youth with difficulties affecting their physical and/or emotional well-being and development. We support youth in making positive health and lifestyle decisions.