Life can be full of ups and downs and finding support may feel overwhelming. Whether you’re facing housing or food insecurity, or coping with family violence, PCN social workers can help.
Some Albertans are struggling. For example, a recent report by the Calgary Foundation shared that:
- 28% of Calgarians are stressed about housing
- 29% worry about running out of food
- 59% are concerned about rates of domestic violence
If you fall into one of these groups and need help navigating your options, Calgary Foothills Primary Care Network’s (PCN) social workers can provide support. The team is equipped to listen to your concerns, understand your needs and connect you with resources to support you and your family.
“When people have access to basic needs — like food and safe housing — it creates a strong foundation for their overall health,” says Elena Kuncic, PCN social worker. “Our job is to help people access these essentials so they can focus on their well-being.”
Finding safe and affordable housing
The cost of renting or owning a home in Calgary continues to rise and affordable housing is difficult to find. While subsidized housing options are available, many are limited and can have long waitlists. PCN social workers can help you understand which affordable housing programs you are eligible for.
Kuncic recommends people under the age of 65 apply for subsidized housing through Calgary Housing. For anyone over the age of 65, YYC Seniors Housing may be a better fit. People can also visit The Safe Communities Opportunity and Resource Centre (SORCe) to connect to a wider network of affordable housing programs.
“We’re happy to help someone fill out applications for subsidized housing and make sure there aren’t any errors during the process,” says Kuncic. “We can also provide a bit of coaching and navigation around finding private market rentals.”
For people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness, the best option is an emergency shelter until longer-term housing can be secured. Emergency shelters in Calgary include:
- Alpha House: 203 15 Ave SE
- Calgary Drop-in Centre: 1 Dermot Baldwin Way SE
- Inn from the Cold: #110, 706 7 Ave SW
Free and low-cost food options
As food costs rise, it can be difficult to put food on the table for your family. Luckily, there are options for accessing free or low-cost food in Calgary:
- The Calgary Food Bank: Provides access to free food for low-income Calgarians. People who are eligible can visit an unlimited number of times throughout the year, as long as there are at least 10 days between hamper requests.
- The Good Food Box: Offers boxes of fresh fruits and vegetables at affordable prices.
- Fresh Routes: A mobile grocery store bringing healthy, fresh and affordable food right to your neighborhood.
- Flash Food app: Find savings on fresh food — like meat and produce — at your local grocery store.
If you struggle with making meals, another option is Meals on Wheels. They offer a subsidy for low-income Calgarians to reduce the cost of prepared meals.
Additionally, social workers may connect you with a PCN registered dietitian who can assist with how to shop and eat healthy on a budget as well as tips on how to make food last longer.
Support for domestic and family violence
When you’re in an unsafe situation, it can be hard to know where to go and how to leave. PCN social workers can work with you to understand your situation and assess if there is an immediate risk to your safety.
If there is an immediate risk, our team can connect you to Calgary-based emergency shelters or services, like Fear Is Not Love — previously the Calgary Women’s Emergency Shelter. If there is no immediate safety risk, social workers can share more resources, such as:
- creating a safety plan
- access to financial support to leave abusive situations
- housing support, including shelters and other options available for domestic violence
- food support
- court or legal support
- family resources
Get help with basic needs and more
Having a conversation with your family doctor or primary care provider is a good place to start when you need help accessing basic needs like food or housing. They can refer you to a PCN social worker. You can also make an appointment directly through the PCN, even if you don’t have a family doctor or primary care provider.
PCN social workers offer free virtual or in-person appointments and can help with:
- access to food
- access to financial and employment resources
- domestic violence
- family, disability, older adult and caregiver support
- housing and transportation
- health and medical benefits
- mental health support
- support for newcomers or immigrants
Book a free appointment by calling 1-855-79-CFPCN (23726) or (587) 774-9736.