Mississauga connects unhoused residents to essential support this winter

Winter is here, and temperatures are continuing to drop drastically. The City of Mississauga is working with Peel Region and other community partners to connect individuals with safe shelter, housing support and critical services, especially during the cold winter days.

Unfortunately, some members of our community are going through a tough time and lack access to safe, stable housing. It’s important that these people are provided with the supports they need and for the local community to feel safe.

Resources and support for individuals in need

Several resources and support services are available to vulnerable individuals in Mississauga. The Peel Street Outreach Team provides on-location services, including hygiene products, food, and referrals to shelters and other supportive services.

If a resident is in need or worried about someone, they can call the Region of Peel Street Help Line at 1-877-848-8481. The helpline is available 24 hours a day to support the unhoused.

• If you need an immediate place to stay and keep warm, there are shelters available for youth, families, adults and people fleeing violence or abuse.
• Call 905-450-1996 if you need a safe place to stay or shelter access.
• Visit Open Window Hub to learn about the resource and information for unhoused individuals and families, and those experiencing mental health challenges in Mississauga. On-site services include complimentary light snacks every weekday, and lunch on Monday, Tuesday, and Friday. Food is available while supplies last and offered on a first-come, first-served basis. Staff are available to assist with resource navigation and connecting to Wi-Fi. The Open Window Hub is located on Level 2 of the Hazel McCallion Central Library. Hours of operation are Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. If you or someone you know needs assistance, please contact the Open Window Hub at 905-615-3200, ext. 3541 to seek support.
• A winter program delivered at Malton Community Drop-In 3540 Morning Star Drive, Mississauga is operated by Punjabi Community Housing Support and offers individuals experiencing homelessness in the community the opportunity to find shelter, take a shower, do laundry, and enjoy a warm beverage and a nutritious meal in a safe environment. Open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. five days a week until March 31, 2026.
• Peel Region operates a stay-the-night program for women in Mississauga. Visit the drop-in programs webpage for more information.
• Mississauga Community Centre Shower Access Pass: Individuals can obtain a no cost Shower Access Pass at the reception desk of various recreation locations during daily operating hours. Hours will vary by location and are subject to change. Learn more at mississauga.ca/homelessness or visit the participating facilities for details.
• Food Banks: Call 211 or Peel Region at 905-791-7800 or visit the Peel Region webpage. There are programs that distribute free groceries or vouchers to eligible individuals and families on low incomes.
• Transitional housing: Transitional housing for youth is a temporary, supportive type of housing. It offers structure, supervision, support, and life skills to help young people go from homelessness to permanent housing. Visit Region of Peel Transitional Housing for more information.
• Housing Services: Apply online or phone 905-453-1300 during office hours to complete a new application.
• Mental health supports:
  • Distress Centre of Greater Toronto 905-278-7208
  • Kids Help Phone at 1-800-668-6868
  • EveryMind’s 24/7 Crisis Response Service at 905-278-9036
  • Peel Public Health at 905-799-7700
• Peel Region: Call 905-791-7800 or toll free: 1-888-919-7800 or visit Peel Region for homeless or at-risk of homelessness support. Services include emergency and transitional shelters, street outreach, support services and help to find permanent housing.

Compassionate, co-ordinated response

Mississauga’s approach is grounded in dignity and respect for every individual, including the unhoused. The City, in partnership with Peel Region and community organizations, is committed to a coordinated, human rights-based response that balances the needs of vulnerable residents with those of the broader community.

For more information on ways to help visit Report an encampment – City of Mississauga or call 311.

Learn more about staying warm this winter during extreme cold.

Tags

• Government and Agencies
• Housing
• Public Safety