What can I do to help?

Homeward Trust offers a number of volunteer opportunities throughout the year. Additionally, we can assist individuals or organizations in hosting donation drives to collect personal care items for Homeless Connect. Our furniture bank, Find, is also always looking for donations of furniture and small appliances (must be in good condition).

For further information on our volunteer opportunities, other volunteer opportunities in the community, donation drives or Find please contact Homeward Trust at 780.496.2630 or info@homewardtrust.ca

What is the difference between absolute and sheltered homelessness?

“Absolute homelessness” refers to individuals and families who have no housing alternatives. These individuals typically sleep ‘on the street’ or in a stairwell, or alternatively they may stay with a friend or find an emergency shelter space.

"Sheltered homelessness" refers to individuals and families who are living in emergency accommodations or condemned housing and do not have a permanent place to live.

What is affordable housing?

Affordable housing refers to lower than average, market owned or rented housing provided to households who earn less than the median income and spend more than 30% of their income on housing. Neither the owner or renter receives ongoing government subsidies.

What is long-term supportive housing?

Long-term supportive housing typically provides permanent accommodation with a support component that enables residents to live as independently as possible. In some instances, resident needs can be adequately met if the housing facility adopts a supportive management model. Essentially, this means that the live-in building manager establishes a relationship with tenants such that external support services can be contacted when a resident appears to be encountering difficulty. At the other end of the spectrum, some people require a facility with on-site, 24/7 support.

What is transitional housing?

Transitional housing provides a secure, healthy living environment where the person or family can receive assistance, counseling and/or treatment and practice life skills, which have the potential to lead to independent living. There is greater potential for success if the person/s has stable living arrangements while counseling/treatment is undertaken.

What is emergency housing?

Emergency housing is intended to provide safe, healthy, overnight shelter for individuals who have nowhere else to go.

I need emergency, transitional, affordable or permanent housing.
Where do I go?

Homeward Trust Edmonton does not own or operate any housing units; however, we are connected to many community agencies that provide accommodation. Please visit Facts and Figures for a list of these agencies.

Where are the shelters in Edmonton?

Shelters are mainly situated in the downtown area of Edmonton. These serve men, youth, women and women with children. The following is a list of shelters in Edmonton:

• Hope Mission
  • Herb Jamieson
  • Women’s Shelter
  • Youth Shelter
• George Spady (detox)
• Youth Emergency Shelter (for youth aged 16-24)
• YMCA (small fee required)
• Women’s Emergency Accommodation
• Salvation Army Short-Term Residence