Community Resources

Message from DPAC Executive

Our hearts are with all those affected by the recent tragedy in Tumbler Ridge. We know the impacts of this event are being felt in various ways throughout our district and may affect students, families, staff and parents.
 
School District 57 has written a letter that addresses what many might be dealing with right now. It is available on the school district facebook and website in full but the following quote is accurate and powerful.
 
“While this event occurred outside our district, its impact can be felt here at home. Students may come to school with questions, concerns, or strong emotions. Some may not yet have the words to express what they are feeling. Please know that our schools remain caring, supportive environments. Counsellors and support staff are available for any student who would like to talk or who may need additional support.
 
Families can also play an important role in helping children navigate difficult news. Creating space for conversation, listening without judgment, and offering reassurance can make a meaningful difference. Keeping regular routines and reminding children that they are safe and supported can provide comfort during uncertain times.” – School District 57
 
DPAC has compiled some resources to help navigate the challenges that may be faced both in and outside our district. These articles are from reliable sources and address how to obtain help if you or someone you love or know is struggling as a result of recent events.  We are also here for those in need of any supports at this time, please feel free to reach out to us at Dpac@sd57.bc.ca or exec@sd57dpac.ca.
 
-SD57 DPAC Executive Team

Tumbler Ridge Resources & Supports

School District 57 – Information on School District 57’s Response and some resources available to students

SD57 Response to Tumbler Ridge Tragedy | School District No. 57 (Prince George)

Province of BC – Information on how to support those in Tumbler Ridge and resources available if you have been affected.

Supporting people through the Tumbler Ridge tragedy – Province of British Columbia

BC Teachers Federation  – Magazine publication on supporting students after a tragic event with several helpful resources.

Supporting students after a tragic event

Northern Health  – Supports available for those in Tumbler Ridge

Mental health supports available in Tumbler Ridge

BC Children’s Hospital – Trauma and PTSD, how to identify the signs, what can be done and how it can be treated.

Kelty Mental Health (BC Children’s Hospital) – Trauma and supporting children

Advocating for our children to succeed in their education can be done in many ways. Students and families are all unique and life has many circumstances that create additional challenges or barriers to education. There is no one solution for everyone. A student that is supported in any aspect of life where they face challenges has an increased chance of success.

The following list is a set of additional resources available to those in our communities that may assist supporting students and families navigate through different circumstances. Although we cannot recommend services or supports, we can provide direction to reliable information for families, caregivers and students to help make informed decisions about addressing challenges or barriers that can impact education.

Community Resources by Subject

General Support and Navigation

  • 211
    • BC 2‑1‑1 (call or text) – Connects callers with social, community, and government services province‑wide.
    • 211 by United Way BC
  • Trans Lifeline – Canada: (877) 330-6366
  • HealthLinkBC:
    • Call 8-1-1 to connect to supports near you

Student Safety

Report It Tool: Students can let schools know if something is wrong

erase: Resources to build safe and caring school communities

Mental Health

  • Kid’s Help Phone
    • Phone: 1-800-668-6868 (toll-free, 24/7)
    • Text: Text CONNECT to 686868 for 24/7 text support
  • Northern Health virtual and community mental health services 1-844-645-7811 
  • Canadian Mental Health Association
  • Foundry BC – offers free, confidential mental health and wellness support (online and in person) for youth ages 12 to 24 Foundry BC

Crisis and Suicide Intervention

  • 9-8-8 Suicide Crisis Helpline (call or text) – 24/7 Immediate support for emotional distress and suicide risk
  • 1‑800‑SUICIDE (1‑800‑784‑2433) – Province wide suicide line
  • Crisis Centre BC – 310-6789 – Distress lines and community education programs.
  • Crisis Centre of Northern BC – crisis-centre.ca  1-888-562-1214  Youth Support Line: 250-564-8336 (text)/1-888-564-8336

Grief and Bereavement Resources

  • Bereavement and Grief Support Line 1-877-779-2223 Free grief‑specific emotional support and referrals. The helpline operates Monday – Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
  • BC Government: After a Death Supports Includes grief resources, Indigenous supports, and bereavement and death bureaucracy navigation.

Indigenous‑Specific Crisis Supports

  • KUU‑US Indigenous Crisis Line — Adults: 1‑800‑588‑8717; Youth: 250‑723‑2040 – for culturally aware support for Indigenous peoples
  • Métis Crisis Line — 1‑833‑638‑4722 – Culturally specific support for Métis individuals and families.