At Youth HQ, our primary objective is the healthy growth and development of every
young person who accesses our programs and services. We’re proud to offer this
compilation of resources for our youth and families during this time when our physical
programming isn’t accessible.

Our leadership continues to pay very close attention to the global outbreak of COVID-19
(novel coronavirus) and the related cases in Alberta, and how these as well as protocols
directed by respective authorities impact our programming in the future.

Here to Help

The 49th Street Youth Shelter is a program designed to assist youth who do not have an appropriate place to stay. Youth are provided with support in a caring and safe environment. Services by the shelter are provided 24 hours per day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Community Based Programs are also available to support youth, young adults, and families.

If you or someone you know is experiencing abuse, there are resources that can help. Abuse is physical, sexual, or emotional mistreatment or neglect often meant to control an individual in an inappropriate way. You have a right to feel safe with your friends, relatives, teachers, and other caregivers. You have a right to feel safe in your schools, homes, and communities. Abuse may not always be obvious, but if something feels off – follow your gut and talk to someone you trust.

  • Emergency Help: 911
  • Red Deer RCMP: 403-343-5575
  • Children's Services: 403-340-5400
  • Children's Services After Hours: 1-800-638-0715
  • Kids Help Line: 1-800-668-6868
  • Child Abuse Hot Line: 1-800-387-8437
  • Sexual Assault Crisis Line Red Deer: 403-356-1099

Addiction can happen at any stage in life, but it often starts at a young age. If you feel like you need to use drugs, consume alcohol, or smoke cigarettes to cope with life or enjoy yourself, you may be addicted. Anything that causes a physiological change to your body is a drug. Anyone can become addicted and it doesn’t make you a bad person if you need help. In fact, you’re brave to admit you might need a little support.

  • Alberta Health Services 24-hour Helpline: 1-866-332-2322
  • Alberta Health Services Help Page: View AHS resources and programs
  • Health Link: 811
  • 211 Alberta: 211
  • Help4Me: Online resources for youth
  • AlbertaQuits Helpline (tobacco): 1-866-710-7848
  • Poison & Drug Information Service: 1-800-332-1414

You don’t just have to live on the streets to experience homelessness. If you’re always moving, if your parents kick you out, if you’re staying with friends, or if you feel like you’re at risk of losing your shelter – these are signs of an unstable living situation. If you or someone you know is at risk of or experiencing homelessness, there are organizations in Red Deer that can help.

  • 49th Street Youth Shelter: 403-341-3190
  • Peoples Place: 403-342-4722
  • MATS Shelter: 403-347-0181
  • Central Alberta Women’s Emergency Shelter (CAWES): 1-888-346-5643
  • CAWES Local Helpline: 1-403-346-5643
  • Red Deer Housing Authority: 403-343-2177
  • Women’s Outreach Center: 403-347-2480
  • 211 Alberta: 211
Everyone feels overwhelmed by a problem at times. If you’re feeling like this, then it’s good to talk with someone about what’s going on. It could be a parent, elder, school counsellor, family doctor, or another adult you trust. While letting your friends know what’s going on can help you feel supported, talking to an adult can help you figure out what steps to take to maintain your wellbeing.
  • Suicide Prevention: 1-800-784-2433
  • Kids Help Line: 1-800-668-6868
  • Mental Health Helpline: 1-877-303-2642
  • Bullying Helpline: 1-888-456-2323
  • 211 Alberta: 211
  • Health Link: 811
For youth and families experiencing financial difficulties, there are a number of resources that can help meet basic needs like food, clothing, and shelter. Youth HQ also offers subsides and scholarships to help youth take part in activities they may not otherwise have access to due to financial limitations. If you or your family is experiencing financial barriers, contact Alberta Works, 221 Alberta, or Youth HQ to find out what resources are available.