Backgrounder – Crisis hotlines

Crisis hotlines are an important source of support for victims and survivors of gender-based violence. They offer confidential support, help with safety planning, information about available services, and referrals to local resources.

In 2021, the Government of Canada announced $30 million over four years to help crisis hotlines respond to the increased demand for support during the COVID-19 pandemic. This funding was delivered through bilateral agreements with all 13 provinces and territories, helping strengthen local, regional, and provincial crisis hotlines across Canada.

Results of the crisis hotlines funding

Through these agreements, provinces and territories strengthened support for crisis hotlines and other organizations that provide crisis hotline services. Between 2022 and 2025, these organizations:

• responded to more than 761,000 calls;
• provided approximately 188,000 counselling sessions; and
• made more than 231,000 referrals to additional supports and services.

Renewed support

Over the coming months, the Government of Canada will continue working with the provinces and territories to renew the bilateral agreements, totalling $31 million over five years, with $6.2 million ongoing.

The initiative is part of ongoing federal, provincial, and territorial efforts to address GBV in Canada and complements the National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence.