Resources

How to Access Mental Health Services

Connect with a case manager for individualized mental health support.

Case managers connect people with housing, healthcare, community resources, and other supports to help them achieve their recovery goals.

How to Apply

How to Apply for Supportive Housing

Waiting List

Demand for supportive and affordable housing in Ottawa is very high. The current waiting period for permanent independent living with Salus is over five years through the Social Housing Registry.

If you are homeless or staying in a shelter, speak with your worker about being placed on the City of Ottawa Coordinated Access List, which may have a shorter wait time.

Other options include:

  • Athlone Program: A 24/7 supported program. Contact Somerset West Community Health Centre to explore a referral.
  • Fisher Program: A transitional program focused on building independent living skills.

Steps to Apply

  1. Complete the Social Housing Registry Application

    Download and complete the Social Housing Registry Application Form. This is also available at our head office.

    Download the Social Housing Registry Application Form
    • Carefully read the instructions and complete all required fields.
    • On page 13, check the Salus box in the Supportive Housing section, along with any other providers you wish to apply to.
    • If you are interested in the Aging-in-Place building on Capilano, make sure your application includes Bachelor units.

  2. Ensure Eligibility for Support Services

    At the time of a housing offer, applicants must be receiving portable support services through a Mental Health Community Support Service (MHCSS) agency or an Assertive Community Treatment Team (ACTT).

    Download the MHCSS application

  3. Submit Your Application

    Submit your completed application and supporting documents by mail or in person to:

    The Social Housing Registry of Ottawa
    2197 Riverside Dr., 5th Floor
    Ottawa, ON K1H 1A9

    Applications are not accepted by fax. Please include proof of income and residency.

What Happens Next

Once your application is submitted and Salus is selected, the Registry will share your information with us. When you reach the top of the waitlist, we will contact you to review eligibility, housing needs, and next steps.

If your contact information changes, notify the Social Housing Registry of Ottawa right away so they can reach you when needed.

Emergency Housing and Shelters

If you need immediate emergency housing or shelter, contact the City of Ottawa:

  • 613-560-6000 (Monday–Friday, business hours)
  • 3-1-1 (evenings, weekends, and holidays)

Crisis Contacts

If you are experiencing a mental health or substance use crisis, you can contact the Mental Health Crisis Line, which offers 24/7 support in English and French.

Within Ottawa: 613-722-6914

Outside Ottawa: 1-866-996-0991

Quebec: 819-595-9999 or 1-866-277-3553

Website: crisisline.ca
 
If you are experiencing a medical or mental health emergency, or if there is an immediate risk of harm to yourself or someone else, please call 911 or go to your nearest hospital emergency department.

You can also call or text 988 to reach the Suicide Crisis Helpline, available 24 hours a day across Canada.