Emergency

Here is a list of emergency and urgent contact resources in California for immigrants and other residents. These resources include phone numbers and contact information to receive immediate and emergency services in various areas such as housing, food, healthcare, legal support, and financial assistance:

Crisis Helplines

Crisis helplines provide free support for individuals experiencing emotional crises. They keep your information confidential and do not share it with anyone. These lines are generally available 24/7. All these helplines are equipped with trained counselors who are ready to listen and provide assistance. Some offer support in multiple languages.

Call Center
Contact Number
988 ((Call or T(Call or Text)
741741 (Text)
985-5990(800) (Call or Text)
422-4453(800) (Call or Text)
(800) 799-7233 88788 (Text “START”)
373-7888(888) (Call or Text)233733
786-2929(800) (Call or Text)
656-4673(800) (Call)
852-8336(800) (Call or Text) 839863
The Trevor Project for LGBTQ Youth
488-7386(866) (Call or Text)678678 
Veterans Crisis Line
Phone: 988 (Call and press 1)
Text: 838255 (Text)

Many of these lines also offer an online chat option. Check their website for more details. If texting, sending a “Hello” should connect you to a counselor.

Public and Emergency Services

  • Emergency Line (911)
    Description: Use this number to contact public emergency services (police, fire, medical emergencies) in the United States.

  • California 211 Public Assistance Line
    Website: California 211
    Description: 211 provides emergency assistance in areas like housing, healthcare, financial aid, food, legal services, and other urgent needs.

  • California Emergency Services for Immigrants
    Website: California Emergency Services for Immigrants
    Description: Provides legal and counseling services to immigrants in emergency situations.

  • California Food and Emergency Housing Services
    Website: 211 California – Food Resources
    Description: Provides information on food banks and distribution centers in various regions of California.

  • California Department of Social Services (CDSS)
    Website: California Department of Social Services
    Description: Provides social services and emergency housing for individuals in need across California.

  • International Rescue Committee (IRC)
    Website: International Rescue Committee
    Description: IRC provides emergency services including emergency housing, food, financial assistance, and counseling for refugees and immigrants.


Emergency Healthcare and Medical Services

  • California Department of Public Health
    Website: California Department of Public Health
    Description: Offers healthcare, vaccination, and emergency medical services for residents of California.

  • California Mental Health Services
    Website: California Mental Health Services
    Description: Provides counseling and support for mental health and emergency crises.

  • Urgent Care Centers in California
    Website: Urgent Care Centers in California
    Description: Information on urgent care centers and access to emergency healthcare services in California.


Legal and Legal Advice Emergency Services

  • Immigrant Legal Resource Center
    Website: Immigrant Legal Resource Center
    Description: Provides legal counseling on immigration issues and human rights for immigrants.

  • Refugee Legal Services
    Website: Refugee Legal Services
    Description: Provides free legal services for refugees and immigrants.

  • Human Rights First
    Website: Human Rights First
    Description: Offers emergency legal services and counseling for refugees and immigrants.


Other Emergency and Supportive Services

  • Catholic Charities
    Website: Catholic Charities
    Description: Provides emergency services including financial assistance, emergency housing, and health services for immigrants and families.

  • California Employment Development Department
    Website: California Employment Development Department
    Description: Provides immediate services in employment and financial support for low-income and vulnerable individuals.

  • In-Home Supportive Services
    Website: In-Home Supportive Services
    Description: Provides immediate supportive services at home for elderly individuals and those with special needs.

Footer with New Icons