Province of Alberta

07/02/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 07/02/2024 12:20

Helping Calgary’s most vulnerable navigate supports

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Modelled after the successful Navigation and Support Centre in Edmonton, the new centre in Calgary will support vulnerable Albertans by connecting them to critical services.

The centre is offering one-stop access to multiple services such as income support, shelter and housing connections, Indigenous supports, valid Alberta identification, and access to mental health and addiction supports. Calgary Urban Project Society (CUPS), along with Alberta Health Services, will also provide a variety of health and recovery-oriented services on site to those who need them.

"This expansion into Calgary is another great example of us using collaboration to address a serious problem, and another example of us delivering on a promise. The Navigation and Support Centre addresses public health and safety concerns in Calgary by providing a solid path for people who have fallen on hard times to get back on their feet. The ability to access so many services under one roof makes a huge difference for vulnerable Albertans, while easing pressure on our service providers and shelter operators."

Jason Nixon, Minister of Seniors, Community and Social Services

Transportation to and from the centre will be available as needed. Additional transportation will also be provided for those needing to visit other locations for further support. Clients with pets will have access to supports that ensure both they and their pets are cared for while they seek assistance.

"Calgary Homeless Foundation is pleased to partner with the provincial government in the Navigation and Support Centre in Calgary to ensure those experiencing homelessness have a one-stop shop for barrier-free access to services that support their personal recovery. We applaud the coordinated efforts that brought the Centre to completion in such a timely manner, and we look forward to seeing the positive impact it will have on the lives of our most vulnerable citizens."

Patricia Jones, president and CEO, Calgary Homeless Foundation

"We have said before that it takes a systems approach to help and support people in Calgary facing homelessness, addiction and crisis. The Navigation and Support Centre represents an important step in diminishing the burden on the health care system and improving alternative service delivery for first responders so we can ensure the right resource is provided to the right person at the right time."

Katie McLellan, deputy chief, Calgary Police Service

"The Salvation Army is excited to enhance our partnership with the Province of Alberta through the Calgary Navigation and Support Centre opening July 2, to further serve those within our community who are experiencing homelessness."

Cliff Wiebe, executive director, The Salvation Army

The Navigation and Support Centre is located in downtown Calgary near the Salvation Army Centre of Hope, in a space separate from the existing shelter.

Quick facts

  • Provincially funded emergency shelter operators in Calgary include:
    • Alpha House
    • Calgary Drop-In Centre
    • Salvation Army
    • The Mustard Seed
    • YW Calgary
    • The Children's Cottage Society
    • Inn From the Cold
  • Edmonton's navigation and support centre opened its doors in January and since then:
    • more than 2,280 people have accessed the centre;
    • approximately 7,640 referrals and direct connections to services have been made;
    • about 545 referrals to housing programs and more than 560 connections to shelter services have been made;
    • approximately 1,725 ID cards have been issued by Service Alberta and Red Tape Reduction;
    • more than 1,330 people have been provided with financial benefits like Income Support and AISH;
    • about 430 people have been provided transportation;
    • more than 750 people have been referred for health supports;
    • more than 330 people have been connected to mental health and addiction services, including 115 people who have connected to the Virtual Opioid Dependency Program.

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