We Are Here to Help
Whatever you are going through, you do not have to face it alone. Desert Sun offers free, confidential programs for people of all ages across the South Okanagan and reaching out is the first step.
What You Can Expect from Desert Sun
We know that asking for help can feel difficult. Here is what we want you to know.
Virtually all Desert Sun programs are provided at no cost. Fee for Service counselling is also available for needs that extend beyond our funded programs.
What you share with us stays with us. Your privacy is protected at every step.
You can contact us directly. No doctor’s note or agency referral is required to get started.
Our crisis line is available around the clock, every day of the year. Help is always a call away.
Are You in Crisis Right Now?
If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 911 first. Once you are safe, our crisis line connects you to trained support - 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, including holidays. The Women’s Crisis Line is available for women age 16 and over, 8:00 am to 10:00 pm daily.
What Kind of Help Are You Looking For?
Select what best describes your situation to find the right Desert Sun program for you.
I need to get to safety
Crisis & ShelterIf you are experiencing family violence or abuse and need a safe place to go, Desert Sun can help. Our Cindy Taylor Safe Home provides emergency shelter for women and children, 24 hours a day. Our Youth Shelter supports youth at risk of homelessness.
Crisis & Safety programs →I want to talk to a counsellor
Free CounsellingDesert Sun offers free individual and group counselling for men, women, children, and youth. Our trauma-informed counsellors provide a safe, confidential space to work through whatever you are facing at your own pace.
Counselling programs →I need parenting support
FamiliesWhether you are a new parent or navigating family challenges, Desert Sun has a program to support you. All parenting programs are free, welcoming, and judgment-free.
Parenting programs →I am a senior needing support
Seniors 60+Our seniors’ programs help older adults stay connected, independent, and safe. From transportation to home support to elder abuse prevention, Desert Sun is here for seniors in Oliver, Osoyoos, and Okanagan Falls.
Seniors programs →I am a young person needing help
YouthDesert Sun works with children and youth ages 3 to 18 through counselling, school-based programs, shelter, and youth connection programs. You can reach out yourself or be connected through your school or family.
Youth programs →I am not sure what I need
We Can HelpThat is completely okay. You do not need to know which program is right for you before reaching out. Our staff will listen, ask a few gentle questions, and help connect you to the most appropriate support within Desert Sun or elsewhere in the community.
Contact us today →How to Access Support
Reaching out is simple. Here is how to get connected to a Desert Sun program.
Call or Email Us
Reach out by phone at (250) 498-2538 (Oliver) or (250) 495-6925 (Osoyoos), or email admin@desertsun.ca. No referral is needed.
Tell Us What You Need
A staff member will listen and ask a few questions to understand your situation. You do not need to have all the answers. We will help you figure out the best next step together.
Get Connected to Support
We will connect you to the right program whether that is within Desert Sun or with a community partner. All programs are free. We will walk with you every step of the way.
You deserve support.
Whatever you are going through, Desert Sun is here. Our programs are free, confidential, and available to everyone in the South Okanagan. Reach out today.