Housing is more than just a roof overhead. It is a place that provides security, dignity, and opportunity. A place to build memories and turn to after a long day. However, for many Calgarians, finding stable and safe housing is out of reach, creating barriers that impact every other part of their lives.
Forced to Wander
Meet Bruce. He is one of 6,000 clients that CUPS supports each year. Before coming to CUPS, Bruce struggled for years to find a safe place to call home. He grew up facing several adverse childhood experiences including abuse and neglect from his foster family that shaped much of his early life. In 2011 he moved out to Calgary and was living in a friend’s backyard in a tent. It was then that someone referred him to CUPS, a moment that he says helped to change his life for the better. CUPS began to work with him to support in keeping him housed and safe. He began living in a shared space with several other tenants that he got along well with and adopted a cat who quickly became his constant companion.
However, when new tenants moved in, the situation changed. Bruce became subjected to abuse from these new tenants who would physically and verbally attack him unprovoked. Bruce no longer felt safe there. CUPS’ GRSP Team Lead, Housing Locator, and Housing Coordinator worked hard to move him out as soon as possible to a new and safe environment. A unit that was just his own.
A Transition to Freedom & Growth
The move towards independence and security was a complex transition for Bruce but he states that he “is much happier now.” The GRSP team has helped him with paying bills on time and accompanying him to medical appointments. Along with putting in referrals for new furniture and extra cat toys and treats, the team also helped him access the CUPS vet clinic to ensure his faithful companion remains healthy.
This successful transition for Bruce shows not only the pride he takes in his own space but also his involvement in his community. Bruce participates in community meals, supports neighbours when they move in and out, and continues to build meaningful connections. He has been paying his bills on time and created a home that he is proud of.
Bruce used to have tears in his eyes when he would talk to the GRSP team, but he now cracks jokes and lights up every room with his smile and laughter. While he still has a journey ahead of him, he has made significant progress both on his own and with the support of the CUPS Housing Team.
Who We Are
At CUPS, we meet each person where they’re at and provide support in every single step towards housing stability.
Our Compass Housing Program works with clients who have faced chronic homelessness who may be dealing with health, mental health, or addiction challenges. The team helps with finding housing, maintaining it, and staying connected with the appropriate health services.
Furthermore, our Graduated Rent Subsidy Program (GRSP) Team ensures that once a client has completed a case-management program and are ready for more independence that they are able to go to the next steps. Each client is then provided with temporary rental support, life-skills coaching, and guidance in helping them move towards stability long-term. We use integrated care and a holistic approach in every step to ensure each client is set up for success.
Finally, our Community Development team supports individuals and families in a place-based housing model. The redesigned program supports participants with short-term (12–18 month) case management, social connection, and skill-building opportunities provided by onsite staff. Its focus is on helping people stabilize, build independence, and connect with CUPS’ wraparound services. Also including the wider community by reducing barriers to participation and access to local supports.
Because of the important work of our Housing Teams, people like Bruce are offered the opportunity to build the safety, security, and future they deserve.