I didn't realize just how difficult it was to locate and get access to programs that will help you get a roof over your head until I found myself in this situation. I at least had a car (which was my roof over my head) and a job, but I realize there are those that don't even have that. You will find a list of resources on this page as I discover them.
One of the unfortunate things about being in this situation is that while there may be several programs you can access, it is unlikely that any one program alone will provide you all the help you need, and many will insist that you work with other programs. This may work fine in theory but the different programs are in different locations (which is a challenge alone when you are without resources or funds) and it can be a full-time job just trying to co-ordinate things.
Where to Start
Alberta Income Support. website
The first thing to remember is that the government, in its infinite wisdom, has placed the first contact for this program in their employment centers, which means the person you are dealing with up front is not a specialist in income-support or the challenges facing a homeless person but a career/employment specialist (I got this straight from the first contacts I made). I recommend that whether you are working or not you go in with a resume in hand.
There are programs available to help someone get into a home however these funds are minimal and will not even cover the damage deposit on the most basic of apartments. You can print out the Income Support application of their website and fill it out so you are not sent back out waiting to be called in again why you fill out the form.
ou
Important If you are going in to access their programs for damage deposit and first months rent you must go in with a specific residence in mind and have all the details (landlord, contact info, arrangements, etc.) or you will be sent packing and asked to come back when you have that information. This process seems almost self defeating. First of all how do you negotiate and make arrangements with a landlord if you don't know that you can access the income support program to help with the damage deposit and first months rent (but you can't find out if you qualify for the program until you have done this!!). Second - most landlords have a line-up of people looking for a place. What are the chances that they are going to accept your application when you say "Great. I'll take it. I just have to find out if I can get the money first." Third - By the time you have jumped through the hoops of the program it is likely the residence has already been rented to someone else. Income Support Administrators you need to fix this. I understand the need to make sure someone qualifies for the assistance but the process is self defeating.
Websites of Interest to The Homeless and Those Assisting The Homeless
Homeless Nation - a website by and for the homeless
Study Misses the Mark
A new study by The School of Public Policy on homelessness has been released. It is another one of those studies that states the obvious but misses the reality. Sure more available and affordable rental units will help, and yes drug and alcohol abuse aren't the number one factors in creating homelessness. Yes rental subsidies may be needed for some. But one of the major factors that seems to be missing is that for many their daily income is used just to provided food and shelter for them while they are living on the street (and there are a large number of working homeless). How do these people put together enough for damage deposits and first month when every cent they make goes to staying warm, getting to work, and getting some food.
Just my humble opinion but you can read the study for yourself at http://policyschool.ucalgary.ca/?q=content/homelessness-alberta-demand-spaces-albertas-homeless-shelters
