Support Services
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Scroll down for workshops and gatherings, employment programs, tech support, financial ideas and other services which can provide support.
Also, CMHA-Vancouver offers other supports, in addition to the Get Set & Connect program. Click below for more info about these programs and services.
Also check out our researched list of low cost Counselling options.
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Customer Crisis Fund (CCF)
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The Customer Crisis Fund (CCF) is a program offered by BC Hydro to assist residential customers who have been disconnected or are at risk of disconnection due to unpaid bills. The CCF is intended for those who are experiencing temporary financial difficulties, such as job loss, unexpected medical expenses, or the death of a family member.
To be eligible for the CCF, applicants must meet the following criteria:
Applications for the CCF can be submitted online through the BC Hydro website, or on paper at Service BC locations across BC. Community agencies known as CCF Advocates can also assist with the application process. Phone: 2-1-1, or 1-844-708-3208 / 604-909-4861 |
Vet Outreach
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Community Veterinary Outreach (CVO) is a registered charity that aims to improve the health of homeless individuals and their pets through a “one health” model of care.
By offering human health services and health education alongside preventative veterinary care, CVO seeks to improve access to veterinary and human health resources for an at-risk population, and leverage the human-animal bond to increase human health resource uptake. We accept clients on a referral basis from community partnerships that include area shelters, municipal public health, community health centres, and mental health organizations. Eligibility criteria include:
Email: [email protected] |
Vancouver Community Pet Food Pantry
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Offering our community's pet parents a low-barrier way to access free pet food and supplies.
The pantry is open to anyone, at any time. Accepted Items:
Drop-in: Anytime Location: E 40th ave, between Windsor & St. Catherine |
Vancouver Rent Bank
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The Housing Stability Loan Program is a service that provides one-time, interest-free loans to people who are at risk of eviction, homelessness, or utility disconnection due to temporary financial difficulties. The loans can be used to pay for rent, security deposits, and necessary utilities (ex. gas).
Eligibility for the program is determined by the following criteria:
To apply for a Housing Stability Loan, candidates must provide proof of income, statements of expenses, valid identification, and proof of tenancy. The maximum loan amount for a single borrower is $1300 and $1800 for families. Repayment of the loans is spread out over a 24-month period. In addition to providing financial assistance, the Program also offers resources to help individuals better manage their limited financial resources. Drop-in: Thursdays | 11 am - 2 pm Location: 920 East Hastings St., Vancouver Email: [email protected] Phone: 604-566-9685, 604-569-3779 |
Various PHS Community Services Society Shelters
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The Temporary Shelter Program provides temporary shelter options for individuals experiencing homelessness.
Services:
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Various Community Builder Shelters
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Community Builders runs a supportive housing program that provides temporary housing for homeless adults of all genders who are at least 19 years old.
The program has multiple sites around Vancouver and provides the following facilities:
Some sites are partially accessible and provide different levels of additional support services. Open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Location: Various locations in Vancouver Phone: 778-379-3940 Email: [email protected] |
Lookout - Shelters Around The Greater Vancouver Area
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The Lookout Shelters are open 24/7 and offer a range of services and assistance to those in need, including:
Lookout Shelters also provides temporary Extreme Weather Shelters. Eligibility: Unhoused individuals Email: [email protected] Phone: 604-264-1680 Yukon Shelter Location: 2088 Yukon St, Vancouver * Note: Other shelters are located in Surrey, North Vancouver, New Westminster, and Abbotsford. |
The Kettle Society - Homeless Outreach Program
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The Homeless Outreach Program (HOP) at The Kettle is a program designed to assist anyone who is homeless or at risk of homelessness by helping them meet their immediate physical and safety needs.
Resources Provided:
Eligibility: Anyone experiencing homelessness or at risk of homelessness. HOP also offers assistance with BC Housing applications and Income Assistance, as well as referrals to Kettle programs and outside services. The Homeless Outreach Program (HOP) at The Kettle provides essential support and resources to individuals who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. Hours:
Location: 1725 Venables St., Vancouver |
Morning Star
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PThe Morning Star Program provides resources and information to individuals in need.
Resources Provided:
Hours: Saturdays | 7 am - 9:30 am Location: 5288 Joyce Street, Vancouver Phone: 604-435-0323 |
Engaged Communities Canada Society
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The Lower Mainland community is supported by a program that focuses on closing systemic gaps for marginalized areas. The program provides a range of services to vulnerable communities, including those who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless.
These services include:
Cost: Free Phone: 778-223-6987 |
Connective
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Connective is a community-based social services non-profit operating in BC and the Yukon. The organization provides a strong social safety net that addresses the needs of all who walk through our doors. They see a path forward for everyone, with opportunities to learn, grow, and develop—on their own terms and at their own pace. The goal is to assist individuals to achieve greater independence and navigate challenging social systems.
Resources Provided Include:
Phone: 604-872-5651 |
Inclusive Housing Initiative
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Through the Inclusive Housing Initiative, CLBC is fostering partnerships in the housing, community living, and broader public sectors to support the creation of more accessible and affordable housing.
Key to Home Program:
Inclusive Housing Plan:
Email: [email protected] Phone: 1-877-660-2522 |
Get Connected
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The Get Connected program at the Vancouver Public Library helps individuals connect one-on-one with a social worker for support with housing, record suspensions, employment, referrals to community services, and more!
The program is in partnership with Connective. Date: Thursdays | 1 pm - 3 pm Location: Mount Pleasant Branch, 1 Kingsway |
SEED (Skills, Esteem and Employment Development) Program
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The Kettle Society offers an employment program for people with mental health challenges. The program aims to provide support and low-barrier employment placements within The Kettle Society to help participants develop the skills, confidence, and stamina needed to move from unemployment to stable employment.
Details:
Current available positions include:
Email: [email protected] Phone: 604-251-1126 |
Plan Institute - Workshops and Publications
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The Disability Education and Resource Centre (DERC) provides educational programs and resources for individuals with disabilities and their families.
Programs and Resources Offered:
The DERC's workshops cover a range of topics that are relevant to individuals with disabilities and their families. These topics include:
Whether you're an individual with a disability, a family member, or a caregiver, the DERC has programs and resources to help you prepare for and navigate the challenges that come with living with a disability. Reception: 604-439-9566 Helpline: 1-844-311-7526 Email: [email protected]a |
WorkBC Employment and Training Services
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WorkBC team members provide assistance to help individuals find and maintain employment. Whether you are a parent, youth, teacher, career and employment counsellor, human resources professional, researcher or decision-maker, WorkBC’s tools, resources and services can benefit you. The program is in collaboration with the Open Door Group.
Services and resources include:
Who is the Program For?
Phone: 604-334-6372 |
YMCA BC Employment Services
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Get the knowledge and skills from trusted experts to find a job, learn a new skill or make Canada your new home. YMCA BC has established trusted, working relationships with a range of employers in the business community.
Programs for Adults:
Youth Programs (ages 15 - 30):
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Gastown Vocational Services
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Gastown Vocational Services provides a range of free programs designed to assist young adults and youth with mental health disabilities to reach their employment or educational goals, including part-time or full-time work, vocational training, or volunteer work. They also collaborate with job developers to assist with marketing accessible jobs and job placements.
Supportive Employment and Education Services:
Eligibility and Application:
Email: [email protected] Phone: 604-675-2535 Location: 288 -2750 East Hastings St., Vancouver |
DTES Food Programs
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The Downtown Eastside (DTES) Food Initiatives provide a range of food-related programs for individuals living in the DTES area.
Programs Offered:
The DTES Food Initiatives also offer community drop-in programs on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays. Community Drop-In Programs:
The DTES Food Initiatives provide essential food-related programs and services to individuals living in the DTES area, helping to build community and promote food security. Location: 573 East Hastings Street Phone: 604-215-2030 |
Heart Tattoo Society
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The Downtown Eastside (DTES) Meals program provides weekly meals to DTES residents.
Weekly Meals:
Overdose Prevention Society BBQ Mondays 99 West Pender Street 3:30 pm to 6 pm Holiday meals include: Christmas, Valentine's, Easter, Canada Day, Thanksgiving and Remembrance Day. Smoke Signals BBQ Thursdays 161 East Cordova Street 2:30 pm to 4:30 pm Holiday meals include: Truth and Reconciliation Day Location: 41 East Hastings Street Phone: 604-679-4019 |
Neighbourhood Helpers Meal Project
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Outreach and community development services are provided to residents of the West End, Downtown, or Yaletown areas, as well as to those staying in motels with single rooms. The services are targeted towards people aged 50 and older, as well as towards people aged 45 and older who have a disability or are struggling financially.
Services:
Location: 509 East Hastings St, Vancouver Phone: 604-254-2194 Email: [email protected] |
Potluck Cafe Society
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The Potluck Cafe is a social enterprise that serves affordable, wholesome meals to the community. It also offers opportunities to learn basic cooking and nutrition skills and foster relationships with neighbours.
Hours: Mon - Thurs | 10 am - 2 pm Location: 298 East Hastings Street, Vancouver Phone: 604-609-7368 |
Kaleidoscope Mental Health Support
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Kaleidoscope Mental Health Support Society:
Support Group Schedule:
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The Buddy Up Campaign
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Men's Suicide Prevention Campaign This campaign is focused on preventing suicide among men. It's a call to action by men, for men, to encourage open and honest conversations about mental health.
Driving Authentic Conversation Amongst Men The goal of this campaign is to drive authentic conversation amongst men and their buddies. By creating a safe space for men to talk about their mental health, we hope to break down barriers and reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness. Suicide Prevention Year-Round Participate in this campaign year-round by completing activities that promote connection and wellbeing. These activities can be as simple as reaching out to a friend or engaging in a hobby that brings you joy. Promoting Connection and Wellbeing The activities in this campaign are designed to promote connection and wellbeing. By fostering strong relationships and taking care of our mental health, we can prevent suicide and create a more supportive and resilient community. Join the Movement Join us in our mission to prevent suicide among men. Together, we can make a difference by promoting open and honest conversations about mental health and supporting each other through life's challenges. |
The Vancouver Recovery Club
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The Vancouver Recovery Club provides help, hope, and services to alcoholics and addicts seeking relief and recovery from their addiction and disease. Services are available to individuals 18 years and older.
Services and Amenities Include:
Location: 2775 Sophia Street, Vancouver Email: [email protected] Phone: 604-708-9955 |
Recovery Cafe
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The Recovery Café offers support, resources, and a community of care along the entire continuum of a person's need for recovery assistance. It provides a welcoming environment that builds stability, strong relationships, and a sense of belonging.
Services Include:
Guest Drop-In: Mon - Fri, 9:30 am - 4:30 pm New Member Orientation: Wed | 1 pm - 2:30 pm Location: 620 Clark Drive, Vancouver Phone: 604-559-1771 |
Western Aboriginal Harm Reduction Society (WAHRS)
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A group of present and past Aboriginal drug users works to address issues like alcoholism and health epidemics like hepatitis C and HIV/AIDS that are of special concern to Indigenous people.
Meets at the VANDU office: sign-in at 12:15 pm, meeting at 1 pm Fridays (except on cheque issue week). Meal times: 12 pm - 1 pm Location: VANDU, 380 East Hastings Street Phone: 604-683-6061 or 604-683-6199 |
St Paul's Hospital Overdose Prevention Site
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The overdose prevention site located at St. Paul's Hospital offers a range of services for inpatient and outpatient clients. Supervised consumption and overdose prevention sites are safe spaces where teams of trained staff monitor people who use illicit drugs while they use to help prevent and recover from overdoses.
These services include:
Location: 1081 Burrard St, Providence Building Phone: 604-360-8182 |
Harm Reduction Strategies and Services (HRSS)
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The Harm Reduction Service Society (HRSS) aims to improve the health and well-being of individuals through various campaigns and programs.
These include:
Location: 655 West 12th Ave, Vancouver Phone: 604-707-2400 |
Avalon Women's Centre
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This organization operates resource and drop-in centers for women recovering from addiction.
Resources Provided:
Vancouver Meetings:
Phone: 604-263-7177 |
Vancouver Aboriginal Health Society (VAHS)
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* Note: The Primary Care Clinic is currently at capacity and cannot welcome new patients at this time.
The health care services offered at this center are focused on providing basic healthcare treatments and specialty services to urban Indigenous people and residents of the Downtown Eastside on a first-come, first-served basis. This includes:
The center also offers the following services:
* Note: Clients may be eligible for income assistance on a case-by-case basis. Hours: Mon, Tues, Thurs | Fri 9 am - 5 pm Wednesdays | 9 am - 8 pm Saturdays | 9 am - 3 pm Closed weekdays | 12:30 pm - 1 pm Location: 449 East Hastings Street, Vancouver Phone: 604-255-9766 |
Spikes on Bikes
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The organization provides community assistance to prevent drug overdoses in Vancouver's Downtown Eastside and West End neighbourhoods, using specially outfitted bicycles. The service is available 24/7 to provide support when needed.
Services Include:
Call for service. DTES:
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Families in Recovery (FIR) Program
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FIR Square is a Combined Care Unit that provides care to women using substances and infants exposed to these substances. A multidisciplinary team will help you and your baby stabilize safely, provide care and support to you throughout your pregnancy, and support you in your transition back to your community after giving birth.
Details:
Referrals:
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PHS - Culture Saves Lives
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Collaboration with Indigenous harm reduction leaders in a movement called Culture Saves Lives
Reconnecting or assisting people in making a first connection to traditional, spiritual, and cultural practices. Primary Programming:
Hours: Monday - Friday | 10 am - 3 pm Email: [email protected] Phone: 604-683-0073 Location: 9 East Hastings St., Vancouver |
Virtual Substance Use and Psychiatry Service
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The First Nations Virtual Substance Use and Psychiatry Service provides individuals with access to specialists in addictions medicine and psychiatry as well as mental health and wellness care coordinators. The service is free for First Nations people living in BC.
Addictions Medicine Pathway:
Email: [email protected] Doctor of the Day:
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National Overdose Response Service (NORS)
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Phone-based overdose prevention program available to all Canadians as well as numerous Indigenous communities
Caller will be under the supervision of a virtual overdose supervisor for 15 to 30 minutes after using Supervisor will contact 911 dispatch center if an overdose is suspected during the call. 911 Emergency Response:
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Distro Disco - Mobile Support Services
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The Mobile Service provides homeless individuals with:
The service holds donation drives on the first Saturday of the month. Cost: Free Location: Vancouver Area Email: [email protected] |
WISH - Mobile Access Project (MAP Van)
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MAP Van provides outreach services to street-based sex workers who trade in areas where there are few late-night services, and who are extremely vulnerable and often targeted.
Services Provided:
Dates: 7 days/week | 365 days/year Hours: 12 pm - 6 pm | 11 pm - 5 am Phone: 604-720-5686 Email: [email protected] |
PHS - Mobile Needle Exchange
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PHS Mobile Needle Exchange:
Email: [email protected] Phone: 1-604-657-6561 General Phone: 311 or 604-873-7000 |
Crystal Meth Anonymous - Methbusters
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Crystal Meth Anonymous is a twelve-step fellowship for individuals wanting to stop using crystal meth and other substances.
3 Main Components: 1. Meetings and Fellowship 2. Sponsorship and Step work 3. Service and Commitments Membership Eligibility:
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Indigenous Health Program
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The Indigenous Health Program offers therapeutic health and wellness practices that combine First Nations and Aboriginal as well as mainstream therapeutic practices.
Services:
Other Services:
Phone: 1-877-875-1131 Email: [email protected] |
Translink Special Offers and Discounts
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Translink has teamed up with an incredible line-up of local businesses, all committed to offering exclusive discounts for transit riders this summer. From hidden gems to family favourites, there's an adventure waiting for everyone – all easily accessible via public transit.
Current Offers from Local Businesses Include:
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Eastside Family Place
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The drop-in centre provides support and resources for parents and carers with young children from birth to six years old.
Services:
Location: 1655 William Street Phone: 604-255-9841 or 604-255-9802 |
Miscellany - Women Working With Women Society
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The thrift shop is a social venture that sells used items including:
Hours:
Phone: 604-215-9970 |
My Sister's Closet
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The thrift store promotes zero waste, eco-fashion, and the thrift movement. Revenues fund violence prevention and intervention services with the Battered Women's Support Services.
Women who have left an abusive relationship can:
Store hours:
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Charlie's Pet Food Bank
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The organization offers a pet outreach program that provide free and low-cost pet services for people who are homeless, low-income individuals, and older residents of the DTES.
Supplies and Services:
Eligibility:
Hours: Thursdays | 10 am - 12 pm Location: 543 Powell Street, Vancouver Phone: 604-829-8849 |
Dress for Success Vancouver Society - Suiting
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The Dress for Success program aims to boost the confidence and preparedness of individuals during job search and employment. They provide guidance and support to select an appropriate outfit for the interview.
Eligibility:
Email: [email protected] Phone: 604-408-7923 Location: 201-5118 Joyce St., Vancouver |
Bette's Boutique
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Bette's Boutique provides both material and emotional support to women and their families in the DTES. The organization provides free access to various resources.
Location: 305 Main Street, Vancouver Phone: 604-681-4437 Email: [email protected] |
Abortion Rights Coalition of Canada (ARCC)
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The Abortion Rights Coalition of Canada is a national organization that:
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Campaign "Act for Mental Health"
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All Canadians have a right to free, publicly funded mental health care.
Despite the fact that many Canadians require mental health services, only a small percentage of them will receive it. The Act for Mental Health campaign, a group of Canadian organizations, is calling on politicians to implement universal mental health care. There are several reasons why this is important:
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Gathering Place - Art and Music Programs
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The Gathering Place art and music programs are open to everyone with a current membership card and recreation pass. Programs include pottery, various art classes, and music jam sessions.
A free membership is required to access services at the Gathering Place. Phone Number: 604-665-2391 Location: 609 Helmcken St., Vancouver |
DEWC - Cultural Programming
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Cultural Programming at the Downtown Eastside Women's Centre:
Email: [email protected] Phone Number: 604-681-8480 Location: 302 Columbia St., Vancouver |
Carnegie Community Centre - Arts Program
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The Carnegie Centre values the arts and supports their ability to uplift, serve as a means of expression, foster community, and boost local pride. The Centre offers a wide range of art, writing, music, and other programs.
Program Features:
Email: [email protected] Phone Number: 604-665-2220 Location: 401 Main St, Vancouver |
Credit Counselling Society - Vancouver Office
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The Credit & Debt Counseling Services (CDCS) is a non-profit organization that provides private credit counseling and debt consolidation assistance.
Services:
Location: Suite 290 – 800 Hornby Street, Vancouver Phone: 604-527-8999 or 1-888-527-8999 |
Consolidated Credit Counselling Services of Canada Inc
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The Credit Counselling Society is a non-profit organization that provides free credit counseling, resources for financial education and financial literacy, and assistance to individuals in financial hardship.
The Credit Counselling Society's services are available in several languages, including Cantonese, Farsi, Arabic, and Spanish. Hours:
Phone: 844-329-7615 Email: [email protected] * Note: The Credit Counselling Society's Vancouver satellite office is by appointment only and can be contacted by phone, email, or through the online contact form. |
Office of the Superintendent of Bankruptcy
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The Office of the Superintendent of Bankruptcy (OSB) is a government agency in Canada that supervises bankruptcy and insolvency processes. The OSB maintains an online public log of business reorganizations, consumer proposals, and receiverships.
Location: 2000-300 West Georgia Street Phone: 1-877-376-9902 or 604-666-4610 |
Rise: Women's Legal Centre
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Provides low-income, self-identified women and gender non-conforming individuals with free unbundled legal services.
Areas of legal service includes: family law, limited non-urgent immigration applications, assistance with human rights and police complaints, replacement of ID and correction of name or gender markers for identity documents. Clients must not be currently receiving legal aid or hiring a lawyer and must be dealing with legal issues that fall under the purview of BC courts. Services provided:
Location: 516 Richards Street, Vancouver Phone: 236-317-9000 Email: [email protected] |
Community Legal Assistance Society
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In British Columbia, legal aid is provided to low-
income individuals. Legal issues related to workers' rights, housing security, income security, mental health detention, workplace harassment, and human and civil rights! A variety of legal services are provided:
Email: [email protected] Phone: 604-685-3425 Location: 505 Hamilton St, Vancouver |
Legal Aid BC
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Legal Aid BC provides a variety of legal services to low income individuals and families residing in BC. Legal aid is funded by the provincial government and organizations such as the Law Foundation of BC and Notary Foundation of BC.
Services:
Who qualifies?
Phone: 1-866-577-2525 / 604-408-2172. |
Gam-Anon - BC
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Gam-Anon is a support group for individuals who are affected by someone else's gambling addiction. It gives individuals an opportunity to share their experiences, learn tools and tips, and grow emotionally.
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Gambling Support Line BC
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The Gambling Support BC website offers free, confidential, and multilingual information about gambling support and treatment options for those in BC.
It provides recommendations for:
Intake: Request Support Online Phone: 1-888-795-6111 (24/7, 365 days/year) |
GameSense Information Centres
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The British Columbia Gambling Support (BCGS) program provides information and resources to help individuals make informed decisions about gambling.
BCGS operates interactive kiosks called GameSense Info Centers (GSICs) at casinos and community gaming centers. Trained GameSense Advisors are also available at GSICs in BC casinos to answer questions about:
Consumer Services: 1-866-815-0222 Hours: Daily | 7 am - 12 am |
GamTalk
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The GamTalk forum is a resource for individuals with gambling challenges.
GamTalk provides links to telephone and internet resources for those seeking assistance with gambling addiction, as well as their loved ones and anyone interested in responsible gaming. The forum allows for anonymous posting and is monitored by administrators. Cost: Free Location: Online Time: Mondays | 6 pm - 8 pm |
Sheway
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Sheway provides health and social service support to pregnant women and women with infants dealing with drug and alcohol issues.
The program's focus is to help women have healthy pregnancies and positive early parenting experiences. Sheway provides:
Email: [email protected] Phone: 604-216-1699 Location: 533 E Hastings St |
First Nations Health Authority - Vision Care Coverage
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Eye Health Coverage by Health Benefits:
Phone: 1-855-550-5454 |
Pharmacy Compass
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The Pharmacy Compass is an online tool developed by Pacific Blue Cross that may help you save money by comparing the average price for prescription drugs at different pharmacy locations across British Columbia based on claims submitted to Pacific Blue Cross over the past three months.
It allows you to search prescriptions from different pharmacies and display their dispensing fees. This helps you lower your prescription costs. |
Vancouver Association for Survivors of Torture
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Background of Vancouver Association for Survivors of Torture (VAST):
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Hope to Health Research and Innovation Centre
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Established by The BC Centre for Excellence (BC-CfE) in Vancouver's Downtown Eastside (DTES) in October 2019
Clients have substance abuse and mental health concerns as well as multiple diseases such as HIV, hepatitis C (HCV), and often co-infection with HIV and HCV. Interdisciplinary Team:
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Drop-In Computer Use
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Gallery Gachet offers free drop-in computer use, which is open to everyone in the community. As there are a limited number of computers available, there may be a short wait at certain times.
Times: Wednesdays | 2 pm - 4 pm Location: 9 West Hastings St., Vancouver |
Repair Cafe
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The Repair Cafe offers free repairs for small appliances, electronics, and clothing. The goal of the Cafe is to reduce waste, boost sustainability, and avoid costly replacements.
Details:
1661 Napier Street |
reBOOT Canada
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reBOOT Canada provides computer equipment, training, and technical support to charities, non-profits, and people with limited access to technology.
Current Programs in Vancouver:
Phone: 416-534-6017 Email: [email protected] |
Working Gear
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Working Gear provides free clothing to individuals who are in need of assistance and are entering the workforce in the Lower Mainland. They provide industry-appropriate clothing, from a suit for an interview to construction workwear, so individuals can find paid employment.
Details:
Location: #228-475 Main Street, Vancouver Email: [email protected] Phone: 778-877-0147 |