For more details on topics covered in the Aboriginal Youth Info+Net, visit the City of Calgary Youth Employment Centre and talk with one of our Career Advisors.

If you are thinking about moving to Calgary or have recently moved to Calgary, then this page is for you. This section focuses on services available to newcomers in the city of Calgary.

Frequently Asked Questions - click on the question to fast track to the answer:

1. How do I register for junior/senior high school?
2. How do I find a Doctor?
3. How do I find a Dentist?
4. How do I find an Optometrist?
5. Does Calgary have any food banks?
6. Where can I look for affordable housing?
7. Is there affordable daycare offered in Calgary?
8. Are there any Aboriginal agencies that can provide help, community or advice on other services?
9. Are there any other agencies that offer Aboriginal Programs?
10. What kind of services does The City of Calgary offer Aboriginals?
11. Is there affordable recreation available in Calgary?
12. What is the difference between 211 and 311?
13. What is 'Inform Calgary" and how does it work?

• ARTICLES & RESOURCES

Frequently Asked Questions about Moving to Calgary (Q&A)

1) How do I register for junior/senior high school?
There are several schools you could attend but it depends on where you live in the city. It also depends if you want to attend public or separate school. Public schools are governed by the Calgary School Board while separate schools are governed by the Calgary Catholic School District. If you are unsure of the area you are moving to, then you can call the school boards directly for more information. Both the Calgary Board of Education and the Calgary Catholic School District have Aboriginal Liaison Workers that assist you with registration processes or finding information.

Calgary Board of Education
This link will take you to the home page of the Calgary Board of Education. If you click on 'Schools & Areas', you will have the option of finding a school in your area either alphabetically or by community name. There are employment opportunities on the website as well.

The Calgary Board of Education also has another school designed for high school students who would prefer a more flexible learning environment. The programs is available at four different campuses around Calgary and is available for youth who are between the ages of 16 to 20 years old. Fifteen year olds can register under special circumstances. The Calgary Achievement Centre for Youth houses one of the Discovering Choices schools and for more information about it click here.

Calgary Catholic School District
This link will take you to the home page. For school information, click on "schools" then click on "School Lists" to find a school in your area. Also posted on their site are employment opportunities and various links.

2) How do I find a doctor?
There walk-in clinics around Calgary for emergencies but the Calgary Health Region also has a phone number and a website that can help you to find a doctor in your area who is taking new patients. Remember, just because you have found a doctor, it does not mean you have to stay with that physician if you feel uncomfortable. At The Alexandra Health Centre, located downtown, there is an Aboriginal Health Facilitator whose goal is to aide in all aspects of the health care process. They can help you locate a doctor and figure out those 'non-insured' benefits for Aboriginals. You can contact them with any questions and no referral is needed to access this service. Checkout their website below.

Health Link 943-LINK (5465)
You can call here if you want to talk to person to find out information about which doctors are taking new patients. You can also call here if you have any health concerns, like whether your symptoms should warrant a visit to the hospital. Since you are talking to a Registered Nurse, they can also provide you with feedback related to your health concern.

Calgary Health Region
This website will take you to the home page of the Calgary Health Region. They have, on the front page, a 'Find a Doctor MD Link' which will help you locate a doctor. The site has information on all Calgary Health Region programs, including health clinic locations. Be sure to navigate the site thoroughly, as there is an abundance of useful health related information as well as employment opportunities. The Calgary Health Region also has Aboriginal Liaison Workers at each hospital. These workers provide support to Aboriginal clients, and their families, while they are in the hospital (particularly to rural Aboriginals). To find their contact information, or to find out what other Aboriginal health services the Calgary Health Region offers, click here.

3) How do I find a Dentist?
Listed below is the site for the Alberta Dentist Association and College. Here you can find a General Practitioner in Calgary. The "search option" allows you to search locally by inputting your postal code, or city wide, in case you are unsure of you postal code. This site is a good locator of registered dentists in Calgary.

Alberta Dental Association and College
You will be taken to the home page and click "Dentist Locator" then chose "General Practitioner" if you want to find a family dentist. Chose your postal code, or city, and hit search. It will give five random dentists but if you insert your postal code it gives you only the ones in your area. You can keep searching after you have received your results and if you hit the back green arrow button at the top of the page, it will take you back to the search engine so you can search again without rewriting the information.

4) How do I find an Optometrist?
The Alberta Association of Optometrists will help you locate an eye doctor or optometrist. This link will give you a list of all Registered Optometrists in Calgary and lists them alphabetically. This site has lots of links and information regarding to your eye care.

Alberta Association of Optometrists
Lists the address and phone number of optometrists in alberta.

5) Does Calgary have any food banks?
Yes, Calgary has the Inter-Faith food Bank that you can access up to 3 times per year, without a referral from an outside agency and up to 3 times with a referral from an outside agency. To apply for a hamper the process is quite simple. You can call the referral number or go down to their 11th Street SE facility and speak with a Food Bank Volunteer to guide you through the screening process. The Food Bank Volunteers are trained to understand your circumstances and have the knowledge to connect you with other needed programs. For the hamper request, and more information on other food resources programs available in Calgary, click here and this will open to a printable document with resource information for anybody ranging from pre-natal moms to Elders.

Calgary Inter-Faith Food Bank
Here you will find information on how to apply for a hamper, their events, how to become a volunteer and information about what services they offer.

6) Where can I look for affordable housing?
There are many websites available on the internet that can help you search for affordable housing. Subsidized housing is available in Calgary and although the waiting list is long for Calgary Housing Authority, remember that all situations are different so apply if necessary. You will need to fill out a lengthy application form, so make sure you have all your documents ready when applying. There are many documents that are needed, but since all situations are different call the number on the link for further information. Some basic documents that will be needed include four current pay stubs and if you are a sponsored student or receiving alternative funding you will need proof of that income. If you receive Child Tax Benefits or GST supplements you will need proof of that as well and any child maintenance received or assets you own. Have your documents readily available when you fill out your application. There are two organizations in Calgary that provide subsidized housing for Aboriginals. Métis Urban Housing Corporation, provides subsidized housing for Métis and Status Aboriginals. When filling out an application you will need similar documents, as mentioned above, with the addition of a Métis or Status card, reference letters, Alberta Health care numbers for all family members and medical letters from your doctor (if your situation warrants one). You can contact them for more information at (403) 569-9030 and find out how to apply. Treaty 7 Urban Housing Authority also provides subsidized housing for Aboriginals who hold status cards. Since they are located in Lethbridge, you can call 1-800-567-4256 (toll free) and they will fax you an application. Similar documents are needed when applying (as mentioned above), with the addition of a social insurance number. Remember that the required information must be from everyone who will reside in the home. For more clarification on this matter, or any other questions, contact the appropriate housing agency.

Subsidized Housing Link

Calgary Housing Authority
This site, housed at The City of Calgary website, will give you contact information and information on what kind of annual income is needed to qualify for low-income or affordable housing.

Affordable Housing Links

Housing Registry Network
Very straight forward and you have the option of finding low cost rent in specific quadrants of the city.
Home Rent.ca
This link gives you the ability to custom design your search criteria, just click "view listings".
U of C Students' Union Off-Campus Housing list
Good searching tool link to view listings in your desired area. Just choose a quadrant of the city where you would like to live.
Rent Faster.Ca
Straight forward search engine site, just choose "Calgary" then your options.
4 Renters.net
Just choose "Calgary" then which quadrant you would like to live in and search.
Canada.com (Calgary Herald)
Just follow the Real Estate Rentals link and select your criteria.
Calgary Sun
Just click "classifieds" and a listing of available housing in Calgary is provided.

7) Is there affordable daycare offered in Calgary?
Calgary has many daycare centres that offer subsidy for its customers. Applying for subsidy is a lengthy process that will require supplemental documents verifying income. Be prepared to have, on hand, your child tax credit information, GST information and monthly income (whether it's from a sponsor or working income). Like subsidizing housing, a similar element of this program will help ease financial stress for low-income families. Child care is expensive at times, so find out if you qualify for subsidized daycare. You can check out our link below for more answers.

Government of Alberta Children's Services
This page will answer any questions you have about daycares and day homes in Alberta. You have the ability to look up the availability of daycare centres and day homes in your area. You can also find information on daycare subsidies and you can even apply online for one.

8) Are there any Aboriginal agencies that can provide help, community or advice on other services?
There are many agencies in Calgary designed to give a helping hand to newcomers and long time residents. Listed below are a few links to various resource centres, in the city, that offer information. Some agencies offer help with housing while other agencies offer assistance with health issues. Some host youth groups and others have stay in school programs. The agencies highlighted below are in place to help you thrive, not just survive, as a newcomer to Calgary. To find out the full capacity of all the services and programs these agencies offer, feel free to contact them.

Aboriginal Resource Centre
The resource centre services include; the Horizon Youth Program, a Housing Advocate, food bank, Community Outreach Worker and head start programs. They also host community functions and numerous other support services are available. To find out more information about a specific program, contact them or drop by to speak with an Outreach Worker. Phone (403) 204-0083 - 1603 10th Avenue SW

Wandering Spirit
Wandering Spirit teaches three different styles of Pow-Wow Dancing as well as a drumming class. Their Cultural Connections Program allows street youth the opportunity to reconnect with their heritage. The Black Powder Dance Group is a performance opportunity for those who have been taking the classes for at least a year. On top of all these great opportunities, Wandering Spirit provides numerous Cultural Workshops throughout the year. For more information on Wandering Spirit contact them at (403) 210-4924

Calgary Aboriginal Friendship Centre
This website will provide you with a listing of all the Friendship Centres in Alberta and what programming and services are available to the public. To contact the Calgary office click "Alberta Friendship" and it will take you to a directory of all Friendship Centres in Alberta.

Métis Calgary Family Services
Offers stay in school programs, youth programs, community programs and Elder youth programs to name a few. MCFS also offers a wide variety of services to all Aboriginals.

Alberta Works - Government of Alberta
Alberta Works is designed to help unemployed people find and keep their jobs. They help low-income Albertans cover their basic costs of living, and help employers meet their needs for skilled workers.

Child & Family Services Authority
Calgary and Area Child and Family Services is involved with Community Resource Centres located throughout the Calgary and Area region. These centres are easy to find and they are located in strip malls, community association buildings or recreational buildings.

9) Are there any other agencies that offer Aboriginal Programs?
Yes, there are many wonderful programs offered in the city of Calgary that offer Aboriginal services and programs. Below are a few agencies.

Red Cross
Provides assistance in times of need as well as emergency help for housing problems. One volunteer opportunity is with the Tipi of Courage program. They provide free training as an Outreach Volunteer or Facilitator Volunteer through an interactive workshop (with an Aboriginal perspective) on HIV/AIDS awareness.

Salvation Army Centre of Hope
Provides programs and services to Calgary citizens and has programs for youth and emergency food and housing.

Inn from the Cold
Provides emergency shelter for individuals and families that are homeless. Another great program they have deals with security deposits when moving. If you qualify, they can assist you with your damage deposit but checkout their website for more information.

Women's Centre
Has great programs and services for women. If you click "support", on the left hand menu bar, then click "Aboriginal Resources", you will have access to more services and agencies in the Calgary region.

The Mustard Seed
A non-profit Christian humanitarian organization that responds compassionately to the needs of Calgary's inner-city's less fortunate by working with the church and the community. For more information about what services and programs the SEED offers just click the "about section" at the top of the web page.

Elbow River Healing Lodge offers health examinations, family care, Adult Aboriginal Mental Health, client advocacy, traditional care - Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 4:30pm.
For more information please call 781-3200
Address: #216, 906-8th Avenue SW

Awo Taan Family Wellness Centre Phone 531-1880

Ghost River Rediscovery is non-profit organization that offers outdoor & cultural education programs based on Aboriginal traditions & values. Phone 270-9351

10) What kind of services does The City of Calgary offer Aboriginals?
Listed are links to some of The City of Calgary's initiatives in Aboriginal Services.
The Youth Employment Centre is one of those initiatives. Aboriginal Community Social Workers are also on staff with the City. Visit www.calgary.ca and type "Aboriginal Services" in the Search field.

Aboriginal Agencies and Service Guide
This web guide is also available in booklet form. If you're interested in obtaining a copy there is contact information on the site. This guide is categorized, so if you're interested in youth services, then click "youth" for a listing of youth target agencies in Calgary.

Calgary Urban Aboriginals Affairs Committee
This committee has been part of The City of Calgary since 1979. On behalf of City Council, this committee has investigated various concerns involving those of Aboriginal Ancestry and have made recommendations to various city resolutions.

Street Survival Guide
Published from City of Calgary Community and Neighbourhood Services Department, this page offers a comprehensive listing of various agencies in Calgary that provide free services to those living on the streets and those of low income. It's very user friendly and the information is broken down into specific needs categories. This guide is also available in hard copy and can be picked up at most social service agencies.

11) Is there affordable recreation available in Calgary?
Two specific services, for Aboriginals and low income families, are highlighted below. These agencies believe recreation is important and provide a holistic approach to well being and program delivery.

YMCA Aboriginal Youth Programs
This PDF file will give you information on recreational Aboriginal programs available at the YMCA. They also offer financial assistance for families and to find out more information click here and click "financial assistance" on the top tool bar.

Boys and Girls Club Aboriginal Youth Programs
This site gives an overview of their yearly program information and schedules. By becoming a member, you have access to all programs over the course of the year. New programs begin every September, but you can still join the Boys and Girls Club anytime.

The City of Calgary Recreation Services
Here you will find all the programs that The City of Calgary has to offer in recreation. Check out the Fees Assistance program under "programs and lessons" (for low income people). It will give you information on how to apply for this subsidy program. This program offers an opportunity to access City programs at a reduced cost.

12) What is the difference between 211 and 311?
311 is a service offered to Calgarians through The City of Calgary. This service provides 24 hour, 365 days/year information about all non-emergency city services and programs. Whether you want information or have a question about stray animals, road closures, recreation, water reductions, recycling and so on. This phone number will connect you with an actual person, who will ensure your request gets to the right department. The 311 representatives will answer your question and if you require more information they will pass on your request to the appropriate department. The Motorola customer service technology tracks every call which means you can follow up on you requests to be sure it was handled.

211 is a service offered in Calgary through a joint initiative. 211 is a free telephone number that connects callers to a full range of community, social and government services. Here in Calgary, Certified Information & Referral Specialists answer 211 calls between 8 am and 10 pm, Monday through Friday. Eventually, 211 will operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week. 211 can be accessed by individuals, families, professionals and community agencies. 211 is equipped to provide service to anyone who feels barriers are an issue in their life, whether it's language, poverty or personal difficulty. 211 is designed to provide information pertaining to Municipal Government services only. For more information on the 211 service check out their website by clicking here.

13) What is "Inform Calgary" and how does it work?
Inform Calgary is part of Alberta's new province wide on-line directory. The site contains general information about community, health, social, and government services across the province. The online provincial directory has publicly funded and/or not-for-profit community, health, social, and government organizations and services listed to help you out. The site is maintained by the Inform Alberta Partners like health regions, community information & referral services across Alberta. These partners ensure the accuracy of the information and add any new organizations and services who register online. How you use Inform Calgary is quite simple. Our link will take you to the Calgary section of the site and you can either type in search keywords or search using an organizational/agency name. You can click "directories" on the top tool bar for Aboriginal services and agencies. Click here to be taken to their website.

ARTICLES & RESOURCES

Big City Big Changes

Active Living Services - Low Cost Solutions in Calgary

Emergency Food Resources in Calgary

Low Cost Food Resources in Calgary

THEALEX - Youth Health Centre