Halifax

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Community Support Services

Overview of social and community organizations that provide safety, housing, and domestic support for vulnerable individuals.

Sections

1. Halifax Regional Police (HRP) and Community Policing Services

The Halifax Regional Police (HRP) is the primary law enforcement agency in the city, ensuring public safety and security. They also offer community-focused programs to build trust and address safety concerns.

Key Services:

  • Emergency Response: Dial 911 for emergencies (e.g., crimes in progress, medical emergencies, or fire).
  • Non-Emergency Line: Call 902-490-5020 for non-urgent matters (e.g., reporting theft, suspicious activity, or minor accidents).
  • Community Policing Offices: HRP operates community policing offices to engage with residents and address local safety concerns.
  • Victim Services Unit: Provides emotional support, information, and referrals to victims of crime.

Locations and Hours:

  • Halifax Regional Police Headquarters: 1975 Gottingen Street, Halifax, NS
    • Hours: Open 24/7 for emergencies and police assistance.
  • Community Policing Offices: Locations vary; check the HRP website for details.

Costs:

  • Free for all residents and visitors.

Application/Access:

  • No application is required. Services are available to everyone in Halifax.

Considerations for Newcomers:

  • Newcomers are encouraged to attend community safety workshops hosted by HRP to learn about local laws and safety tips.
  • Translation services are available for non-English speakers.

2. Halifax Regional Fire & Emergency (HRFE)

HRFE provides fire protection, emergency medical response, and disaster preparedness services.

Key Services:

  • Fire safety education and inspections.
  • Emergency response to fires, hazardous materials incidents, and natural disasters.
  • Community outreach programs on disaster preparedness.

Locations and Hours:

  • Main Office: 40 Alderney Drive, Dartmouth, NS
    • Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM โ€“ 4:30 PM
  • Fire stations are located throughout Halifax and operate 24/7.

Costs:

  • Free for residents and visitors.

Application/Access:

  • No application is required. In case of emergencies, dial 911.

Considerations for Newcomers:

  • Attend fire safety workshops offered by HRFE, especially if you are unfamiliar with Canadian fire safety standards.

3. Immigrant Services Association of Nova Scotia (ISANS)

ISANS is a key organization supporting immigrants and refugees in Halifax. They provide safety and security-related services, including workshops and resources to help newcomers adapt to life in Halifax.

Key Services:

  • Personal Safety Workshops: Topics include understanding Canadian laws, tenant rights, and how to report crimes.
  • Support for Victims of Violence: Referrals to shelters and counseling services for individuals experiencing domestic violence or abuse.
  • Community Connections Program: Helps newcomers build social networks and access safety resources.

Location and Hours:

  • Main Office: 6960 Mumford Road, Suite 2120, Halifax, NS
    • Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM โ€“ 4:30 PM

Costs:

  • Free for immigrants, refugees, and newcomers.

Application/Access:

  • Register online or in person at ISANS to access services.

Considerations for Newcomers:

  • ISANS offers interpretation services for non-English speakers.
  • They also provide guidance on navigating the Canadian legal system.

4. Avalon Sexual Assault Centre

The Avalon Centre is a specialized organization providing support to individuals who have experienced sexual violence.

Key Services:

  • Crisis Support Line: Immediate support for survivors of sexual assault.
  • Counseling Services: Trauma-informed therapy for survivors.
  • Advocacy and Legal Support: Assistance with navigating the legal system and accessing medical care.

Location and Hours:

  • Main Office: 1526 Dresden Row, Suite 401, Halifax, NS
    • Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM โ€“ 4:30 PM
  • Crisis Line: Available 24/7.

Costs:

  • Free for all residents and visitors.

Application/Access:

  • Call the crisis line or visit the office to access services.

Considerations for Newcomers:

  • Services are confidential and available to all genders.
  • Interpretation services are available upon request.

5. Shelter Nova Scotia

Shelter Nova Scotia provides safe housing and support for individuals experiencing homelessness or housing insecurity.

Key Services:

  • Emergency shelters for men, women, and families.
  • Transitional housing programs.
  • Support for individuals leaving correctional facilities.

Locations and Hours:

  • Metro Turning Point Shelter (Men): 2170 Barrington Street, Halifax, NS
    • Open 24/7.
  • Barry House Shelter (Women): 2706 Gottingen Street, Halifax, NS
    • Open 24/7.

Costs:

  • Free for those in need.

Application/Access:

  • Walk-ins are accepted, or referrals can be made through community organizations.

Considerations for Newcomers:

  • Staff are trained to assist individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds.
  • Interpretation services may be available.

6. Nova Scotia Legal Aid

Nova Scotia Legal Aid provides free or low-cost legal services to individuals who cannot afford a lawyer. They assist with issues related to safety and security, such as domestic violence, tenant rights, and immigration law.

Key Services:

  • Legal representation and advice.
  • Assistance with protection orders and family law matters.
  • Support for immigration and refugee claims.

Location and Hours:

  • Halifax Office: 5475 Spring Garden Road, Suite 401, Halifax, NS
    • Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM โ€“ 4:30 PM

Costs:

  • Free or low-cost, depending on income.

Application/Access:

  • Apply online or in person. Proof of income may be required.

Considerations for Newcomers:

  • Legal Aid offers services in multiple languages and can connect clients with interpreters.

7. 211 Nova Scotia

211 Nova Scotia is a free, confidential helpline that connects residents to community and social services, including safety and security resources.

Key Services:

  • Information on shelters, food banks, and crisis services.
  • Referrals to organizations providing safety and security support.

Access:

  • Dial 211 or visit their website (www.ns.211.ca) for assistance.
  • Available 24/7.

Costs:

  • Free for all residents and visitors.

Considerations for Newcomers:

  • 211 operators are trained to assist individuals from diverse backgrounds and can provide information in multiple languages.

8. YWCA Halifax

YWCA Halifax offers programs and services to support women and families, with a focus on safety and empowerment.

Key Services:

  • Support for Survivors of Violence: Counseling and advocacy for women experiencing domestic violence.
  • Safe Housing Programs: Transitional housing for women and children fleeing abuse.
  • Youth Safety Programs: Workshops on bullying, online safety, and self-defense.

Location and Hours:

  • Main Office: 1233 Barrington Street, Halifax, NS
    • Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM โ€“ 5:00 PM

Costs:

  • Free or low-cost, depending on the program.

Application/Access:

  • Contact the YWCA directly to inquire about specific programs.

Considerations for Newcomers:

  • Services are inclusive and culturally sensitive.

Final Tips for Newcomers:

  • Emergency Numbers: Always remember that 911 is the emergency number in Canada for police, fire, and medical emergencies.
  • Cultural Sensitivity: Halifax is a multicultural city, and most organizations are equipped to assist individuals from diverse backgrounds.
  • Language Support: Many organizations offer interpretation services or have multilingual staff to assist newcomers.
  • Community Involvement: Attend local workshops and events to learn more about safety and security in Halifax.

By utilizing these services, newcomers and residents alike can feel safe and supported as they navigate life in Halifax.