Finding Support & Community
Navigating life as a 2SLGBTQIA+ person means different things to different people—sometimes you need professional support, sometimes you're looking for community, and sometimes you just want to know which businesses are safe and welcoming spaces. We've gathered resources both on and off campus to help you find what you need, when you need it.
Whether you're seeking mental health support, looking to connect with others who share your experiences, or searching for queer-friendly services in the Niagara region, this page is designed to be your starting point. We've organized everything to make it easier to find exactly what you're looking for:
- On-Campus Resources includes services, groups, and support available right here at Brock University.
- Off-Campus Resources extends beyond our campus to include:
- Communities: Organizations, groups, and spaces where you can connect with other 2SLGBTQIA+ folks.
- Community Health Centres: Healthcare providers offering affirming, knowledgeable care.
- Hotlines & Support Services: Immediate support when you need someone to talk to.
- Queer-Owned & Queer-Friendly: Businesses, services, and spaces that actively welcome and celebrate our community.
Know of a resource we should include? Contact us to share your suggestions. We update this page monthly to ensure our community has access to the most current and relevant support. Please note: Inclusion on this list does not constitute an official endorsement by Brock University or the 2SLGBTQIA+ Working Group, but reflects resources that community members have found helpful or welcoming.
On-Campus Resources
Brock Pride is the official Brock University club devoted to creating a safe, social environment for students of diverse gender and sexual identities.
Students can order from new vendors and include a range of items such as: Chest Binders, Breast Forms, Packers, Tapes, Padding and other gender affirming gear!
A drop-in space is a peer support service where students can seek support, educational resources, and referrals to on and off campus organizations from fellow peer assistants.
Committed to supporting and creating a safe campus for all students, staff, faculty, and community members, as they promote education, activism, and equity on campus.
SWAC is dedicated to enhancing the student experience by providing comprehensive, accessible, and supportive services tailored to meet the evolving needs of its diverse student body.
A resource for Brock University students, staff, faculty, and visitors in navigating transgender, nonbinary, and Two Spirit related matters in the university environment.
Off-Campus Resources
Communities
A community organization advocating for and supporting Niagara’s 2S&LGBTQQIA+ community through education, advocacy, and community-based initiatives. They provide resources, events, and programs to foster inclusivity and connection across the region.
In communities across the country, the Pflag Canada network provides peer support, education and advocacy for a Canada that affirms, respects and values all sexualities, genders and gender expressions.
Provides support, education, and advocacy for individuals living with, affected by, or at risk of HIV in the Niagara region. Services include harm reduction, prevention programs, and community support to promote health and well-being.
Community Health Centres
Niagara Falls Community Health Centre offers one-on-one support, group programming, & education. Such as, Help with paperwork such as legal name change processes and removing barriers overall.
Offers comprehensive primary care, including a dedicated gender-affirming care program. Services include hormone therapy, mental health support, and holistic care for transgender, nonbinary, and gender-diverse individuals.
A gender-affirming voice therapy service helping individuals develop a sustainable, authentic voice that aligns with their identity. Sessions focus on pitch, resonance, intonation, and communication styles in a supportive environment.
Hotlines and Support Services
Peer support and resources for 2SLGBTQIA+ youth (ages 29 and under) across Ontario.
SHILO is a free, anonymous and inclusive eChat and phone service for Ontario residents. This service is staffed by counsellors who provide information, support and referrals in English, French and other languages on sexual health topics.
Trans Lifeline is a grassroots hotline and microgrants non-profit organization offering direct emotional and financial support to trans people in crisis – for the trans community, by the trans community.
Queer-Owned & Queer-Friendly
A collection of individuals in St. Catharines, Canada, who come together each week to run, sweat, and connect socially. The crew’s mantra is “Moderate Pace – Positive Space”, which serves as an invitation and a reminder that the group is inclusive and open to all abilities, experiences and backgrounds.
A gender-affirming hair removal service offering electrolysis and laser hair removal in a safe and inclusive environment. They provide services tailored to the needs of transgender, nonbinary, and gender-diverse individuals seeking permanent hair removal solutions.
A dedicated safe 2S/LGBTQQIA+ space for anyone to walk, run, talk, and build community! No sign-ups necessary!
A welcoming community hub in downtown St. Catharines, Mahtay Café is a queer-friendly space that serves local food and drinks while showcasing local artists.
A body-positive sugaring studio offering gender-affirming hair removal for all bodies. The Pampered Peach is committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and empowering space for every client.
A non-profit boxing space offering inclusive, gender-affirming classes for cis, trans, and non-binary individuals, focused on empowerment, community, and well-being.
A gender-affirming voice therapy service helping individuals develop a sustainable, authentic voice that aligns with their identity. Sessions focus on pitch, resonance, intonation, and communication styles in a supportive environment.