For Immediate Release
January 13, 2005
McGUINTY GOVERNMENT PROVIDING NEW SUPPORTS TO ONTARIANS FOLLOWING TSUNAMI DISASTER
Establishes Provincial Phone Line With Ontario Psychologists To Offer Emotional Support
TORONTO - The McGuinty government, in partnership with the Ontario Psychological Association (OPA), is establishing a provincial phone line that offers emotional support to Ontarians affected by the recent tsunami disaster, Dr. Marie Bountrogianni the Minister of Children and Youth Services and Citizenship and Immigration announced today.
"Ontarians who have been emotionally devastated by this horrific disaster thousands of miles away need to know there's help available to them close to home," said Dr. Bountrogianni.
The Tsunami Emotional Support Line is being staffed by psychologists volunteering their time to respond to phone calls from people who may be experiencing psychological or emotional effects as a result of the tsunami disaster. People receive short-term crisis support as well as information on any needed follow-up with community mental health providers in their area.
"Our government is pleased to be teaming with the Ontario Psychological Association to reach out to people who need extra support and understanding during these days of shock and grief," Health and Long-Term Care Minister George Smitherman said. "We want the Tsumani Emotional Support Line to be a welcome avenue for anyone who feels the need to talk about this disaster but doesn't know which way to turn."
People who are seeking emotional support following the tsunami disaster can phone
1-866-532-3161 (TTY: 1-800-387-5559) . The tsunami support line is in operation from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. on weekdays and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekends.
"In this time of tragedy and great personal loss, Ontario psychologists wanted to reach out to the individuals in our community who are suffering the emotional ordeal of suddenly losing friends, family and communities," said OPA President Dr. Douglas Saunders. "Psychologically, it is important that they know that others in the community are willing to support and hopefully provide some comfort in this time of their grief and loss."
The Ontario government is continuing its work with its federal counterparts to assess the needs of affected newcomers and the adequacy of settlement and other services - including housing, education, health, and employment - to meet the needs of immigrants affected by the tsunamis.
Minister Bountrogianni made the announcement at the Centre For Information and Community Services in Toronto with Scarborough - Agincourt MPP and Chair of Management Board of Cabinet Gerry Phillips. The agency provides a range of programs and services for immigrants in the community.
"We need to look at what our government can do to offer assistance to those who are affected by the tsunami as well as those who are affected right here in Ontario," said Phillips. "Our goal, as always, is to support children and families and to provide immigrants to Ontario with the services they need to be successful."
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Contacts:
Eva Lannon
Minister's Office - Health and Long-Term Care
(416) 327-4320
Dan Strasbourg
Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care
(416) 314-6197
Nicole Curling
Minister's Office - Citizenship and Immigration
(416) 325-6207
Elaine Thompson
Ministry of Citizenship and Immigration
(416) 314-7233
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