The Government of Alberta Is continuing to support Homeless and Women's Shelters as the COVID-19 Pandemic continues.

Homeless and Womens shelters have already received financial support to open 14 new shelter facilities to meet the physical distancing requirements and are now focusing their efforts on re-housing to take people out of the shelter system.

Executive director of the Calgary Drop-In Centre Sandra Clarkson says they are focusing on getting people back to living on their own.

“We are focusing our efforts to support people without a fixed-address during this pandemic and empower them to move into their own homes. During this crisis, we have not lost sight of our housing efforts and our goal to end chronic homelessness. We appreciate the support of government during this time and will continue to work together to support our most vulnerable people.” 

Since the beginning of the pandemic over 400 people have been housed.

The Government is also supporting Women's shelters during this time providing a safe place for women and children experiencing domestic violence.

These programs are being supported by adjusting programming to meet psychical distancing requirements, hiring additional staff and moving victims to safe, isolated hotels.

The Government of Alberta has received 850 applications for the $30 million in funding from charities, not-for-profits, and civil society organizations from across the province.

These applications are being reviewed and urgent requests are being prioritized to deliver the most effective support to vulnerable Albertans.

The Government also recently provided $5 million to help food banks and charities provide Albertans with food during this crisis.

This funding helps ensure safe food distribution to Alberta’s food banks and will assist with efforts to respond to COVID-19.