TORONTO, Jan. 13 /CNW/ - The McGuinty government, in partnership with the

Ontario Psychological Association (OPA), is establishing a provincial phone

line that offers emotional support to Ontarians affected by the recent tsunami

disaster, Dr. Marie Bountrogianni, Minister of Children and Youth Services and

Citizenship and Immigration announced today.

    "Ontarians who have been emotionally devastated by this horrific disaster

thousands of miles away need to know there's help available to them close to

home," said Bountrogianni.

    The Tsunami Emotional Support Line is being staffed by psychologists

volunteering their time to respond to phone calls from people who may be

experiencing psychological or emotional effects as a result of the tsunami

disaster. People receive short-term crisis support as well as information on

any needed follow-up with community mental health providers in their area.

    "Our government is pleased to be teaming with the Ontario Psychological

Association to reach out to people who need extra support and understanding

during these days of shock and grief," Health and Long-Term Care Minister

George Smitherman said. "We want the Tsunami Emotional Support Line to be a

welcome avenue for anyone who feels the need to talk about this disaster but

doesn't know which way to turn."

    People who are seeking emotional support following the tsunami disaster

can phone 1-866-532-3161 (TTY: 1-800-387-5559). The tsunami support line is in

operation from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. on weekdays and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on

weekends.

    "In this time of tragedy and great personal loss, Ontario psychologists

wanted to reach out to the individuals in our community who are suffering the

emotional ordeal of suddenly losing friends, family and communities," said OPA

President Dr. Douglas Saunders. "Psychologically, it is important that they

know that others in the community are willing to provide support and hopefully

some comfort in this time of their grief and loss."

    The Ontario government is continuing its work with its federal

counterparts to assess the needs of affected newcomers and the adequacy of

settlement and other services - including housing, education, health, and

employment - to meet the needs of immigrants affected by the tsunamis.

    Bountrogianni made the announcement at the Centre For Information and

Community Services in Toronto with Scarborough-Agincourt MPP and Chair of

Management Board of Cabinet Gerry Phillips. The agency provides a range of

programs and services for immigrants in the community.

    "We need to look at what our government can do to offer assistance to

those who are affected by the tsunami as well as those who are affected right

here in Ontario," said Phillips. "Our goal, as always, is to support children

and families and to provide immigrants to Ontario with the services they need

to be successful."