We understand that global events—such as conflicts, natural disasters, and social injustices—can deeply affect members of our community. These challenges can make it difficult to concentrate on academics and work, and to maintain one’s personal well-being.
To support our various communities, the Office of Equity, Diversity, Inclusion and Anti-racism has curated a list of on- and off- campus resources that are available to you and has also created opportunities for community engagement.
Please take a moment to explore these options below.
Tangible Resources/Supports
For 2SLGBTQIA+ Community Members:
- Spectrum Waterloo provides peer support and social activities for queer people in the Waterloo Region
- Queer and Trans Graduate Students Wellness (QTWELL) is an open drop-in group for any graduate student who is a sexual and gender minority or identifies as part of the 2SLGBTQIA+ communities
- Glow Centre Trans Resources - provides peer support, advocacy and resources for 2SLGBTQIA+ members, promoting healthy attitudes towards all identities and organizing social events on campus.
- Counselling Services provides the option to request a queer/trans counsellor at intake.
- OK2BME KW provides counselling, youth groups and education services for queer people in Waterloo Region
- As straight as the ring road – a Walk and Talk, Outdoor, Therapeutic Group for Queer and Trans Students
- Rainbow Pages is SPECTRUM’s compiled list of businesses and services that are queer-owned and queer-friendly in Waterloo region
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Gender Journeys is a supportive psychoeducational group specifically designed to support gender diverse UW students.
How to be a supportive ally:
For International Student Community members
- International Student Resources: Resources related to international student life.
- International Student Conversations: A space where international students can gather in community and share their experiences living in Canada.
- International Peer Community: A space where international students can find community amongst other international students, settle and feel supported.
- Connection Collective: A space for equity-deserving students to connect with other equity-deserving students seeking community.
- 1:1 Counselling support: Students can book a one-time 90 minute appointment with a counsellor to focus on an immediate concerns or if it’s a crisis they can schedule a crisis appointment and can be seen within 24 hours or 3 - 5 days.
- Graduate Student Association (GSA) Events & Resources for International Students: Events for graduate international students, including networking and community-building activities.
For Palestinian, Muslim, Arab community members:
- WUSA Clubs
- University of Waterloo Muslim Student Association - This club fosters a vibrant Muslim community at the University of Waterloo, offering an Islamic environment and promoting awareness of Islam through lectures and events.
- Waterloo Arab Student Association - This club celebrates Arab heritage through cultural, social and educational events, fostering a supportive community for Arab students and those interested in Arab culture.
- UWaterloo Counselling Services - The University of Waterloo counselling services offer a secure, inclusive environment with specialized counsellors who provide personalized support, emphasizing diverse identities and lived experiences.
- Coalition of Muslim Women of K-W - The Coalition of Muslim Women of K-W empowers Palestinian, Muslim and Arab communities by addressing discrimination, Islamophobia and gender-based violence through advocacy and social justice initiatives.
For Jewish, Israeli community members:
- WUSA Clubs
- UWaterloo Counselling Services - The University of Waterloo counselling services provide a supportive, inclusive environment with specialized counsellors offering personalized care, emphasizing diverse identities and relatable lived experiences.
- Kosher Food Bank - The Kosher Food Bank supports the Jewish and Israeli community by providing kosher food, respecting dignity through appointments and distributing baskets during High Holidays and Pesach.
- Hillel Waterloo & Laurier - Hillel Waterloo/Laurier engages Jewish students through education, advocacy and cultural activities, fostering Jewish identity and inclusivity while promoting connection to Jewish life and Israel.
- Waterloo Region Jewish Community Council - The WRJCC fosters community through groups like "JUnite 20s & 30s," "LGBTJU," "Ladies Group," "Guelph Schmoozers," and "50+ Group," promoting inclusivity and connection.
- Jewish Counselling - The Jewish Family and Child Service fosters resilience, hope and dignity, supporting individuals and families through inclusive programs, safe spaces and community-focused workshops.
For Black and Racialized Community members:
- Students can access accommodations for Racial Trauma through AccessAbility Services
- UWaterloo Counselling - prioritizing affected individuals
- Healing in Colour: find a Racialized therapist
- RAISE (Racial Advocacy for Inclusion, Solidarity, and Equity): WUSA service addressing racism and xenophobia, offering peer support and events.
Taking an active role of your own personal safety and security:
Download Regroup Mobile
Downloading the Regroup Mobile app to your mobile device keeps you connected to campus, while the in-app alert and push notification features allow you to stay informed of major campus emergency events -- even when you’re on the go.
Canadian Civil Liberities Association (CCLA)
The CCLA – provides resources that outline your rights, how to protect yourself, and they provide guidance on how to interact with police. Learn more on the CCLA website.
Food Banks
Off Campus Food Bank listing for:
- Bridgeport cafe at Emmanuel United Church
- Erb west community centre
- Victoria Hills Community Centre
- All Saints’ Anglican Church
On Campus: Food Support Services: - Fill out the form on the website to pick up a hamper.
Did you know our office:
Community of Care Sessions
In collaboration with Campus Wellness, our office will arrange in-person sessions (upon request) to support communities in need. These sessions aim to foster community building, understanding, connection, and care within affected groups.
We are here to help.