Caring for Community. Together.

Welcoming Streets in Downtown Kingston

Supporting business and property owners in the development of a safe, inclusive, and supportive community that addresses the diverse needs of all involved, while assisting individuals in accessing community services.

Welcoming Streets is a street outreach initiative in Kingston's downtown core designed to address the increase of individuals in public spaces suffering from mental health and/or addictions related challenges.

Launched in 2023, the program fosters a compassionate, inclusive, and supportive environment for all members of the downtown community. Experienced outreach stewards engage with vulnerable individuals on a daily basis to help connect them with local service providers and community organizations. In addition, Welcoming Streets Outreach Stewards support downtown business and property owners in an effort to develop a safe and inclusive community that addresses the diverse needs of all involved.

Caring for community. Together.

Inclusive

We aim to create an inclusive downtown environment where individuals from all walks of life feel valued, respected, and included in the community. By building authentic relationships challenges are easier to solve together.

Supportive

By providing support, resources, and fostering a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere for our local businesses, residents, and visitors, Kingston will continue to grow and thrive as one of  Ontario's most vibrant downtown cores.

Engaging

Empowerment through connection creates support systems that help both businesses and marginalized individuals. These systems provide resources and address immediate needs, build resilience, and promote long-term well-being.

Who to call

Welcoming Streets offers valuable training, resources, and assistance to maintain the safety of our community while promoting a balanced approach that emphasizes both compassion and enforcement when needed. By providing the necessary tools to navigate challenging situations, we cultivate a culture of understanding and cooperation that benefits everyone in the downtown Kingston area.

If you find yourself in a situation that is beyond your control,
consider using the resources below for help.

Emergency, or crime being committed

If a crime is being committed or you feel unsafe

CALL 911

Mental health/addiction crisis support

Call Welcoming Streets.
7 days a week, 9am-5pm

613-583-5008

Excessive garbage, abandoned shopping carts

Abandoned garbage, trash or shopping carts, call By-law:

613-546-4291 ext: 3135

Police Non-emergency

Police assistance needed but it is not an emergency:

613-549-4660
ext 2244

Situation Escalates

If the situation escalates while waiting for assistance

CALL 911.

After Hours Crisis

Mental Health & Addictions Support 24 hours/ 7 Days a week.

613-544-4229

More Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

Welcoming Streets is a street outreach program in Kingston's downtown core, launched in 2023, to address mental health and addiction challenges in public spaces, fostering a compassionate and inclusive environment.

The Downtown Kingston Collection offers unique finds, exclusive deals, and vibrant local products, making it a must-visit for shoppers seeking distinctive items.

The program supports the community by creating a supportive environment for individuals facing mental health and addiction challenges, promoting inclusivity and compassion in downtown Kingston.