If you’re a LGBTQQ2S teenager and feel like “better” can’t come soon enough, here’s a list of some places and resources that can help make life a bit more bearable.
Youth Line
A great peer-to-peer service that provides toll-free phone or IM support, information and referrals for queer youth, by queer youth.
1-800-268-9688, youthline.ca.
Kids Help Phone
Not specifically queer-focused, but a reliable source of free, anonymous phone and/or web-based counselling, 24/7.
1-800-668-6868, kidshelpphone.ca.
MyGSA.ca
The online HQ for Egale Canada’s safer schools campaign includes news and info for teachers, parents and students, and resources for individuals who want to start a Gay-Straight Alliance.
mygsa.ca.
Supporting Our Youth
This is a wide-ranging community development initiative geared toward LGBTQQ2S youth. It includes mentorship programs, arts events, supportive housing resources and more.
soytoronto.org.
Sherbourne Health Centre
This community-based health centre with a commitment to the well-being of queer and trans individuals is a vital resource for queer teens who need sensitive, supportive medical care.
sherbourne.on.ca.
Toronto District School Board
The TDSB has a fairly loaded (if labyrinthine) site with loads of equity-related resources. If you’re looking for info on policy or what is and isn’t allowed at school, check here.
tdsb.on.ca.
T.E.A.C.H.
Run through Planned Parenthood Toronto, this leadership program trains peer facilitators to run anti-homophobia workshops
with youth.
ppt.on.ca/anti-homophobia_teach.asp.
Triangle Program
If school really isn’t improving, there’s another option. Based at Oasis Alternative School in Toronto’s east end, TDSB’s
nine-year-old Triangle Program is Canada’s only classroom for queer youth.
triangleprogram.ca.
