Despite Calgary’s high level of development, economic hardships and personal crises leave thousands of people without a home. According to research, the city has over 3,000 individuals experiencing homelessness. At the same time, Calgary is setting a powerful example of solidarity, with dozens of organizations working to help those without a roof over their heads. In this article on icalgary, we will explore how the city and independent organizations are supporting people facing homelessness.
The Scale of the Problem
Every two years, the city conducts a count to determine the number of people experiencing homelessness. According to this research, homelessness in Calgary increased in 2024 compared to two years prior. As of 2024, 3,121 people were in a state of homelessness. In 2022, that number was 2,782.
Of these individuals, 60% are men, 30% are women, and less than 1% are transgender. The gender of the remainder is unknown. About 40% of those experiencing homelessness are White, and 25% are Indigenous Peoples. Black individuals accounted for 11%, and other races for 7%. The remainder is unknown.
Among those surveyed, 35% said they lost their housing due to insufficient income. 26% attributed their situation to partner-related problems. 16% were affected by substance use. 15% cited landlord issues as the problem. 11% lost their housing due to health conditions.
The data is imperfect, as it only reflects a single night of the year, but organizations and the government rely on this research for their work.
How the City is Responding
Combating homelessness requires holistic approaches. The municipal government strives to do everything possible to tackle this issue. The city has a special team of community peace officers called the “Vulnerable Persons Team.” The team’s main task is to identify homeless encampments and ensure community safety.
The Government of Alberta funds special shelters in Calgary. The city has about 2,000 emergency shelter spaces, and the municipal government works with the homeless-serving sector to help more people exit homelessness.
Another important city program is the “Extreme Weather Response.” This provides comprehensive support for vulnerable individuals facing extreme weather conditions. This program is implemented by the city in partnership with the Calgary Homeless Foundation. The program provides spaces throughout the city for people experiencing homelessness at any given time. This project is activated in Calgary during the cold winter months or other extreme weather events.
The city supports the work of the homeless-serving sector, providing about $9 million in funding for various social agencies and programs. Funding from the city is received not only by the Calgary Homeless Foundation but also by organizations such as the Miskanawah Community Services Association, Alpha House, The Alex Community Health Centre, the Distress Centre, the Calgary Immigrant Women’s Association, and Connect 2 Care.
Calgary Homeless Foundation
The Calgary Homeless Foundation is the primary organization dedicated to helping the homeless in the city. The Foundation collaborates with the government and other community partners. The Foundation employs true specialists who understand the root causes and effects of homelessness. This understanding allows them to inspire governments and the community to take shared responsibility.
The Foundation was established in 1998 by leaders like Art Smith, who wanted every Calgarian to have a home. Throughout its history, the Foundation has made significant progress. Today, the organization continues to combat homelessness by uniting the efforts of governments, institutions, and communities.
In 2024 alone, 1,105 individuals achieved independence thanks to the Foundation’s activities. Independence means moving from supportive housing to stable, independent living.
The Calgary Drop-In Centre Society
The Drop-In Centre is another organization that helps people who are experiencing or are at risk of homelessness in Calgary. The centre’s team works to make everyone feel welcome.
The organization is distinct in that it offers not only emergency shelter but also access to essential resources, as well as medical and rehabilitation services. The centre owns and operates three residential buildings that become a home for all who need it.
Another important area of the centre’s work is addiction recovery support. Despite a strong desire to recover, many people face difficult paths in managing withdrawal. The Drop-In Centre offers 15 beds for withdrawal management and 20 beds for transitional recovery. Recovering from addiction is an additional step on the path out of homelessness.
Additionally, the Drop-In Centre has its own donation centre, where you can bring furniture, household items, clothing, hygiene products, and more. The Drop-In Centre team distributes these items to those in need.
How to Get Involved
If you want to get involved in helping the homeless in Calgary, there are many ways to do so. Volunteers are always needed at shelters and charitable organizations. You can also support these initiatives financially: even a small donation helps provide someone with a hot meal. If you are unable to get involved personally, you can spread awareness about support programs.