Welcome to CUPS team
The ‘Welcome to CUPS’ team supports clients in accessing basic needs such as food, clothing, and shelter while connecting individuals with longer-term services like housing support, healthcare, and financial assistance to promote stability and well-being. When you first walk into CUPS, you can meet with Client Navigators who will help you get started finding the right supports.
Walk in and we’ll connect you with the help you need.
Come down to CUPS
CUPS Calgary main office
1001 10 Ave SW – entrance on 10th Ave
Monday to Thursday
8:30–11:45 am
12:45–3:00 pm
Friday
8:30–11:45 am
1–2:00 pm
Closed on weekends, and on statutory holidays.
Phone: (403) 221-8780 (Option #4)
Fax: (403) 221-8791
Email: info@cupscalgary.com
Services offered
Below are some of the services and supports you can access when you connect with the Welcome to CUPS team.
Basic needs referrals
Connects you to essential resources such as food, clothing, financial aid, and emergency support, ensuring immediate needs are met while connecting to longer-term resources.
Identification (ID)
Can support you in obtaining government-issued identification, such as birth certificates or photo IDs, which are essential for accessing housing, employment, healthcare, and financial supports.
Housing advocacy & application support
The Welcome to CUPS team can support you to navigate housing applications and provide guidance on securing safe and affordable housing.
System navigation support
CUPS can help you navigate through complex social service systems, supporting you to access healthcare, financial aid, legal support, and community resources to improve stability and well-being.
Important information about CUPS housing programs
CUPS cannot directly place clients into our housing programs.
Instead, we support individuals and families in completing the steps necessary to access stable and affordable housing. The Welcome to CUPS team can assist with filling out the Needs and Services Questionnaire (NSQ), which is required to join housing referral wait lists through the Calgary Homeless Foundations Coordinated Access & Assessment (CAA) system.
Community development
Supports individuals and families settling into the community through affordable housing units, community-building activities, and supportive programming.
Compass housing program
Compass Housing Program (CHP) supports adults who are experiencing chronic or episodic homelessness and have complex health, mental health, and addiction needs. The program helps participants find and keep stable housing, while connecting them to health and social supports. CHP is based on Housing First principles. Housing Locators on the team help participants find housing, manage issues with landlords, and support ongoing rehousing needs.
Graduated Rent Subsidy Program (GRSP)
Works with individuals and families who have successfully completed a Housing Case-Management program and who need a temporary rental subsidy to maintain housing stability. GRSP helps clients work towards their graduation goals through employment support, resources, and building on their success in their previous housing program.
Frequently asked questions
How can I get help with housing through CUPS?
While CUPS cannot directly place individuals in our housing programs, we can guide you through processes like the Needs and Services Questionnaire (NSQ). We offer information, guidance, and support as you navigate your housing needs. Additionally, we can assist with NSQ check-ins to help you stay up to date on the Calgary Homeless Foundation waitlist.
Can CUPS help me obtain government-issued identification?
Yes, CUPS can help you obtain ID, including birth certificates and photo identification, which are necessary for accessing housing, employment, healthcare, and financial assistance.
Does CUPS provide Legal Assistance?
CUPS periodically partners with the University of Calgary Student Legal Assistance to provide legal support at CUPS with students from their faculty of law. They can assist with civil litigation, criminal defense, family law, traffic and bylaw and landlord-tenant relations. Check our events section below for the latest updates or contact us for more information.
What is system navigation support, and how can it help me?
System Navigation Support helps you access healthcare, legal aid, financial assistance, and social services. We guide you through eligibility, applications, and connecting with the right resources to make sure you get the support you need.
Do you provide support with taxes?
CUPS has staff who are trained to assist with filing taxes, or if needed, we can refer you to other local services in the city that offer tax services. Keeping your taxes up to date is often essential for accessing various resources and benefits, and we’re here to help you navigate that process.
Do I need an appointment to receive support?
If you are new to CUPS, walk-in services are available at CUPS Calgary Main Office during business hours. If you are already connected to CUPS, call (403) 221-8780 (Option #4) to book an appointment.