West Coast Speaks shares tools, research, and support resources that help individuals and communities encourage conversation and strengthen social connection.

 

Meet a Stranger Guidebook

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A step-by-step guide for individuals or communities interested in hosting their own Meet a Stranger conversations. The guide includes tips for organizing events, creating welcoming spaces, and encouraging respectful dialogue.

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Statistics Canada – Loneliness in Canada

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A national overview of loneliness and social isolation in Canada based on the Canadian Social Survey.

Research from Statistics Canada shows that 13% of Canadians aged 15 and older report feeling lonely often or all the time, and nearly 1 in 4 youth aged 15–24 report frequent loneliness.

 

Understanding the scale of social isolation helps highlight the importance of creating everyday opportunities for connection and conversation.

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Download the report:
https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/n1/pub/11-627-m/11-627-m2021090-eng.pdf

 

Support Resources

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West Coast Speaks focuses on encouraging conversation and connection in the community. Loneliness and social isolation can sometimes intersect with mental health challenges. If you or someone you know needs professional support, the following organizations are available in Canada.

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Talk Suicide Canada / 988

Call or text 988 for suicide crisis support available 24 hours a day across Canada.

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Wellness Together Canada

Free mental health support, resources, and counselling services available online.
https://www.wellnesstogether.ca

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Here to Help BC

Information and resources on mental health, substance use, and well-being in British Columbia.
https://www.heretohelp.bc.ca