Supporting Families After Tragedy
This week, our hearts are with the families and community of Tumbler Ridge, B.C., after the devastating school shooting that took the lives of at least nine people and injured many more. Even though this happened across the provincial border, the impact ripples across Canada, and it’s normal for kids and adults alike to feel shaken, scared, or overwhelmed.
If you or your family need support, there are resources right here in Alberta. Crisis lines, counselling, and family supports are available to help you navigate.
In an emergency, please call 911.
24/7 Crisis & Support Lines
Access Mental Health - 403-943-1500
Suicide Crisis Line (Canada-wide): 9‑8‑8 – immediate support for anyone in distress
Kids Help Phone: 1‑800‑668‑6868 or text CONNECT to 686868 – confidential support for youth
Alberta Mental Health Helpline: 1‑877‑303‑2642 – referrals and mental health guidance
Addiction & Support Helpline: 1‑866‑332‑2322 – if stress or trauma leads to substance use
Health Link Alberta: 811 – nursing advice and mental health referrals
211 Alberta: 2‑1‑1 or text INFO to 211 – find local services and counselling
Local Counselling & Family Support
Synergy - offers a barrier-free counselling program. 403-212-0242
Stepping Stones to Mental Health - through Rocky View Schools. 403-945-0000
Chestermere Community Support Services - 403-207-705
Distress Centre (Calgary & Southern AB) – 24/7 crisis support by phone, text, or chat (distresscentre.com)
Canadian Mental Health Association (Alberta Division) – peer support groups, workshops, suicide prevention programs (alberta.cmha.ca)
CMHA Calgary – peer support, family programs, and community navigators (cmha.calgary.ab.ca)
Support for Victims of Crime
Southern Alberta Regional Victim Serving Society - 403-934-6552
Victims of Crime Assistance Program (Alberta) – counselling, emergency support, and financial help for victims of violent crime (alberta.ca)
Guidance for Talking with Kids
Families don’t need perfect words. Listening, acknowledging feelings, keeping routines, and limiting media exposure can help kids process what’s happened. Resources from Kids Help Phone and the Canadian Mental Health Association provide practical tips for guiding children through trauma.
For a full list of Alberta-accessible supports, visit Synergy’s resource page or Alberta Health Services Mental Health page.
Services and eligibility may vary. If you’re not sure where to start or a resource isn’t the right fit, 211 Alberta can help connect you to the most current local supports.
