It all started on October 14, 2005 with a forum on women's health issues in prison...
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INDEX ClothesCrisis Lines Information and General Services Emergency Housing Housing Registries Co-ops Tenants’ & Landlords’ Rights & Information Food Banks Women’s Centres Neighborhood Houses Community Health Centres (Units/Clinics) Bc Healthguide Nurse Line Dental Clinics Career And Education Programs Community Centre Night School Courses Freebies & Cheapies Food, Clothing & Other Necessities Cheap Clothing, Furniture & Household Goods Recreation, Fun & Culture Neighborhood houses Leisure Access Card Co-dependents Anonymous Specific Services for First Nations Counseling Education First Nations Student Services Academic, Technical Colleges & Universities Employment and Training Health and Healing Housing Recreational Address Book Clothing
In Vancouver the best place to go for clothes is the Downtown East Side Women’s Center. They often have fabulous clothes free because actresses working in Vancouver donate clothes they don’t want to take with them when they leave. This center is a drop-in Center for food, education, counseling, support services and skills development project. Downtown Eastside Women's Centre 302 Columbia Street, Vancouver, BC, V6A 4J1 Canada Tel: (604) 681-8480 Fax: (604) 681-8470
Chilliwack Crisis Line
Vancouver & Greater Vancouver Help for Youth Online: http://www.crisiscentre.bc.ca INFORMATION AND GENERAL SERVICES Information Services Vancouver 604-875-6381 Alcohol and Drug and Information and Referral Service or BC Toll Free: Hours: 24 hours, 7 days a week. 604 660-9382 1-800-663-1441 For services, organizations and nonprofit agencies in Vancouver and the Lower Mainland. They can offer a referral for almost anything. http://www.vcn.bc.ca/isv/ Inquiry BC In Vancouver call: 604-660-2421 Elsewhere in BC call: 1 800 663-7867 Call for referral to the appropriate provincial government department. To reach a provincial office that has a long distance number; call Inquiry BC and they will transfer your call free of charge. http://www.mser.gov.bc.ca/prgs/enquiry_bc.htm Federal Government Information 1-800-622-6232 EMERGENCY HOUSING BC/Yukon Society of Transition Houses 604-669-6943 They deal primarily with women fleeing abusive relationships, however, they can offer referrals to other shelters and may be able to assist in extreme circumstances. Covenant House 604-685-5437 575 Drake Street Shelter services are available to people 16-22 years. Provides information, referrals and supplies for basic needs (e.g. Food bags, toiletries, etc.). Also, they provide access to counseling, legal services, employment programs, medical care, and temporary shelter. The support services are available to people under 25 years. Lookout Shelter 604-681-9126 Provides shelter for women and men 19 and over. Ministry of Social Development and Economic Security After Hours 604-660-3194 They offer emergency support for food, shelter, and transportation. You do not have to be receiving BC Benefits to use this service. If you call after 1am you will need to talk to a Social Worker. Powell Place Shelter 604-606-0403 Offers shelter for women and their children. No males over 14 years old allowed. Salvation Army Homestead 604-266-9696 Allows women 19 and older, boys must be 13 and under. YWCA Hotel/Residence 604-895-5830 May assist women and families in crisis, after they meet with the director. Also call any of the above crisis lines. BC/Yukon Society of Transition Houses 604-669-6943 They deal primarily with women fleeing abusive relationships, however, they can offer referrals to other shelters and may be able to assist in extreme circumstances. HOUSING REGISTRIES Community Housing Registry 100-6846 King George Hwy 604-590-7368 Requires you to come to their offices in person. They will ask you where you want to live, what you can afford and what special needs you have. They will print out a list of suitable places for you to call. The Surrey Registry offers information in other languages and serves women who are either deaf or hard of hearing by calling 1-800-855-0511. NON-PROFIT/SUBSIDIZED HOUSING
Affordable Housing Society, 211-800 Mcbride, New Westminster 604-521-0818 Rental Line 604-521-2496
BC Housing Storefront Office 604-433-2218 4328 Kingsway, Burnaby
Entre Nous Femmes Housing Society 604-451-4412 105-1877 E. George St. Primarily for single parent families. No share purchase required. Write to them requesting an application and include a self-addressed envelope. They will mail an application and a list of their housing locations.
Greater Vancouver Housing Cooperation 604-432-6300 4720 Kingsway, Burnaby Develops and manages rental accommodation throughout the lower mainland for low and moderate-income families, seniors, and the physically challenged. Call and they will send you an application form and a list of locations. Once they receive all of your financial information they will place you on a waiting list.
Red Door Housing Society 604-431-9225 33-2688 Blanche St. Manages affordable housing for families in the Lower Mainland. Waiting list
Semlin Gardens 604-879-5796 1975 E 12 Ave. Subsidized housing for single mothers through the YWCA. Priority is given to women already participating in one of the YWCA programs. But all single moms are welcome to apply.
Single Parent Home Sharing Program 604-590-7368 Community Housing Services Program, 100-6846 King George Hwy, Surrey This program offers free services to individuals seeking affordable accommodation and those offering affordable accommodation in Surrey, White Rock, Langley, Cloverdale and Delta.
NON-PROFIT/SUBSIDIZED HOUSING
Affordable Housing Society, 211-800 Mcbride, New Westminster 604-521-0818 Rental Line 604-521-2496
BC Housing Storefront Office 604-433-2218 4328 Kingsway, Burnaby
Entre Nous Femmes Housing Society 604-451-4412 105-1877 E. George St. Primarily for single parent families. No share purchase required. Write to them requesting an application and include a self-addressed envelope. They will mail an application and a list of their housing locations.
Greater Vancouver Housing Cooperation 604-432-6300 4720 Kingsway, Burnaby Develops and manages rental accommodation throughout the lower mainland for low and moderate-income families, seniors, and the physically challenged. Call and they will send you an application form and a list of locations. Once they receive all of your financial information they will place you on a waiting list.
Red Door Housing Society 604-431-9225 33-2688 Blanche St. Manages affordable housing for families in the Lower Mainland. Waiting list
Semlin Gardens 604-879-5796 1975 E 12 Ave. Subsidized housing for single mothers through the YWCA. Priority is given to women already participating in one of the YWCA programs. But all single moms are welcome to apply.
Single Parent Home Sharing Program 604-590-7368 Community Housing Services Program, 100-6846 King George Hwy, Surrey This program offers free services to individuals seeking affordable accommodation and those offering affordable accommodation in Surrey, White Rock, Langley, Cloverdale and Delta.
CO-OPS To get a list of co-ops currently accepting applications contact:
Co-operative Housing Federation of BC 604-879-5111 Information Tape 604-879-5112 200-550 Fraser St.
TENANTS’ & LANDLORDS’ RIGHTS & INFORMATION
Residential Tenancy Branch 604-660-3400 Information Line 604-660-3456
Downtown Eastside Residents Association (DERA) 604-682-0931 1-425 Carrall St. Call for advocacy, referrals and information.
Downtown Eastside Women’s Centre 604-681-8480 302 Columbia They can provide information, referrals and advocacy.
Tenants Rights Information Line 604-255-0546
Tenants Rights Action Coalition (TRAC) 604-255-3099
FOOD BANKS
Food banks are available in many areas of the Lower Mainland. Most, if not all, food bank centres require you to bring ID and to register either before or on your first visit. Items you need to bring: § identification for yourself and for each of your children § proof of residency – a phone bill, rent receipt § proof of income such as a cheque stub or pay slip § medical cards for each member of your family If possible, call your local food bank ahead of time to check that they are open and that you have all the necessary information with you. Most food banks are closed and do not give food on the day welfare cheques arrive, which is the fourth Wednesday of the month. To find the food bank closest to you or for general information call: Vancouver Food Bank 604-876-3601 Mon-Fri 8am-5pm
St. Paul’s Anglican Church, 1130 Jervis Street 604-685-6832
Mount Pleasant Community Centre 604-713-1888 3161 Ontario St. (16th Ave.)
Thunderbird Community Centre 604-713-1818 2311 Cassiar St. (8th Ave.)
Trout Lake Community Centre 604-257-6955 3350 Victoria Dr. (15th Ave.) Unemployment Action Centre/ 604-525-9628 New Westminster Food Bank United Church, 1111 Sixth Ave.
North Shore Neighborhood House 604-987-9138 225 E 2nd St., North Vancouver
SHARE Society Food Bank 604-931-2451 2404 St. Johns St., Port Moody
Surrey Food Bank 604-581-5443 10732-135th St.
White Rock/South Surrey Food Bank 604-531-8168 5-15515-24th Ave., Surrey
Jewish Family Services (Kosher Food Bank) 604-257-5151 300-950 W 41st Ave.
Langley Food Bank 604-533-0671 5768-203rd Ave.
Richmond Food Bank 604-271-5609 135-12417 No. 2 Road
WOMEN’S CENTRES
Women’s Centres are a great place to start when you are not sure where to begin. If they do not offer the services you need directly, they will give you information on who to contact. The following is a list of women’s centers in the Lower Mainland. The centers have drop in hours and offer a variety of programs and services of benefit to women including resource referral. The centers always need volunteers and some centers take donations of women’s and children’s clothing or other household items.
Douglas College Women’s Centre 604-527-5148 700 Royal Ave., New Westminster TTY 527-5450 David Lam Campus 604-527-5894
Downtown Eastside Women’s Centre 604-681-8480 Women members’ phone line 604-681-7458 302 Columbia Workshops, arts and crafts, out trips, free clothing room, full meals Tues, Wed and Thurs, and soup on other days.
North Shore Women’s Centre 604-984-6009 944 W. 16th Ave., North Vancouver Offers information and referral for health, housing, childcare, employment and counseling. Also offers a resource library, newsletter, seminars, workshops and support programs.
Port Coquitlam Area Women’s Centre 604-941-6311 2420 Maryhill Road, Port Coquitlam Information, referral, counseling services, workshops, resource library, employment assistance, self-help and social support groups, ESL drop-in, community kitchens program.
Richmond Women’s Resource Centre 604-279-7060 110-7000 Minoru Blvd. Les Femmes Parlent Français, stress management and financial management workshops, newsletter, social events, library, advocacy, training programs, peer counseling, single mothers’ group, Chinese speaking single mothers’ group, English conversation group, menopause support.
Ridge Meadows Women’s Centre 604-460-0064 12229 Harris Road, Pitt Meadows SFU Women’s Centre, Burnaby Mountain Campus 604-291-3670
South Asian Women’s Centre 604-325-6637 8163 Main Street
Surrey Women’s Centre 604-589-1868
Vancouver Status of Women 604-255-3998 309-877 E. Hastings Street. Resource and referral service including feminist lawyer referrals. Offers coalition work, public relations, community events, research, an information and resource centre, and assertiveness training. VSW is actively involved in organizing communities of women to develop strategies that address the wide variety of issues concerning women.
YWCA Women’s Information Centre 604-895-5790 4th Floor, 535 Hornby St. Information and referrals. Call or drop-in and browse through their library of brochures, books, videos, newsletters, reprints, clippings and fact sheets. Employment materials include job postings, university and college calendars, information on employment programs and services and books of career planning, resumes and cover letters and starting a business.
NEIGHBORHOOD HOUSES
Neighborhood houses offer community information and a wide variety of programs. Each offers its own programs, some of which may include: kids after school, spring break and summer programs; recreational programs; job training, women’s and single moms’ support groups, drop-ins, ESL, First Nations, seniors and youth programs, parent and child drop-ins, and child minding. Drop-in or call the neighborhood house in your area and ask for a brochure about their specific programs. Each Neighborhood House offers a variety of programs. You may also call the Association of Neighborhood Houses at 604-875-9111 or check their website at www.anhgv.org. Call the one closest to you and ask about their hours of operation and programs.
SUPPORT AGENCIES/GROUPS
Alcoholics Anonymous 604-434-3933 3457 Kingsway
Al-Anon Centre Services Society 604-688-1716 910-626 W. Pender
Narcotics Anonymous 604-873-1018
CoDA Information Line 604-515-5585 C0-Dependents Anonymous – various meetings throughout the lower mainland. See end of the resource section (after leisure info) for locations and times.
Self-Help Resource Association of BC 604-733-6186 Call for a listing of self-help support services in the Lower Mainland.
BC Coalition of People with Disabilities 604-875-0188 204-456 W. Broadway Individual and group advocacy for people with disabilities. Call 1-800-663-1278 for Advocacy Access, a self-help program that provides assistance with welfare, housing, medical benefits and employment. Coalition also runs a mental health empowerment program, which advocates for people with mental health disabilities, and AIDS & Disability Action community education project. Publishes Transition, a newsletter that covers issues of interest to people with disabilities.
Burnaby Family Life Institute 604-659-2200 20-250 Willingdon Ave. Single parents’ support groups, and parenting and educational workshops for children of all ages. Adult survivors of sexual abuse, battered women’s support groups, First Nations’ workshops, and pregnancy outreach workshops. Workshops are low fee and subsidies are available.
Positive Women’s Network 604-692-3000 614-1033 Davie Street Provides advocacy and support to women with HIV/AIDS and referrals to medical, social and community services. Publishes a by-monthly newsletter and a pocket guide.
Sheway Project 604-658-1200 369 Hawks Avenue A community based outreach program providing support services to pregnant women and their children in the Downtown Eastside.
UBC Disability Resource Centre 604-822-5844 www.student-services.ubc.ca/drc
COMMUNITY HEALTH CENTRES (UNITS/CLINICS)
The Health Units/Clinics are now called Community Health Centres. Many of the Health Centres offer HIV/AIDS and pregnancy testing and services in various languages. To find your local health clinic look in the telephone book in the blue pages after the Government of BC section, under Health Authorities for your region and then under Community Health Centres. Call and ask them about the services they offer before you go in person. Each location provides similar services to everyone, including people without a BC Care Card.
For TTY inquiries call 604-736-6259. Most clinics keep standard office hours, but hours change so call in advance.
Burnaby Health Department, 400-4946 Canada Way 604-918-7447 If you have a health concern call and ask for the clinic/centre nearest you.
New Westminster Health Department 537 Carnarvon St. 604-525-3661 They can refer you to the clinic nearest you.
NORTH SHORE Community Health Centres Central, 5th Fl – 132 W. Esplanade 604-983-6700 Parkgate, 2nd fl. – 3625 Banff Ct. 604-904-6450 West, 990-22 St., West Vancouver 604-904-6200
VANCOUVER Community Health Centres/Clinics Burrard/West End 3 Bridges Community Health Centre 604-736-9844 2nd Fl – 1770 West 7th Ave. Community Audiology Centre 300-999 W. Broadway 604-659-1100 Downtown, 412 E. Cordova 604-255-3151 Downtown South Community, 1065 Seymour 604-659-1144 East Vancouver Vietnamese Clinic 604-872-2511 Evergreen Community, 342 Crowley Dr. 604-872-2511 Raven Song Community Health Centre 2450 Ontario St. 604-709-6400 Pacific Spirit, 2110 W. 43 Ave. 604-261-6366 South Community Health Office 6405 Knight St. 604-321-6151
TRI-CITIES AREA Health Units Boundary Health Unit, 14265 56th Ave., Surrey 604-572-2600 Cloverdale, 17536 – 58thAve. 604-574-5100 Guildford, 100-10233, 153 St. 604-587-4750 Simon Fraser, 644 Poirier St., Coquitlam 604-937-4000 Ladner, 4470 Clarence Taylor Cres. 604-952-3550 Langley, 22033 Fraser Hwy. 604-532-2300 Maple Ridge, 11940 Haney Pl. 604-466-7200 North Delta, 11245-84thAve. 604-507-5400 North Surrey, 220-10362 King George 604-587-7900 Port Coquitlam, 2266 Wilson Ave. 604-941-3451 Port Moody, 390-221 Ioco Road 604-461-2705 Upper Fraser Valley, 33313-3rd Ave., Mission 604-826-7166 White Rock, 1185 Centre Street 604-542-4000
The Healing Centre 604-875-4111 575 W. 8th(and Ash) ext. 58284 Offers Aromatherapy massage sessions from the graduating Langara Aromatherapy students at least once a year, only $10.00
BC HEALTHGUIDE NURSE LINE
BC now has a new toll-free health advice line available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, to help you and your family with your health concerns. Specially trained Registered Nurses will answer your questions about health problems and help you decide how to manage illness.
A call to the BC HealthGuide NurseLine can often save you a trip to the doctor or help you decide if you need an urgent or routine appointment. Call (604) 215-4700 from locations in Greater Vancouver or toll-free 1-866-215-4700 from elsewhere in BC. Translation service is available for people who speak languages other than English. In addition, TTY service for the Deaf and hearing-impaired is available toll-free throughout BC at 1-866-TTY-4700. The advice line nurses can also help explain a diagnosis, test, or treatment that you don’t fully understand. The nurses can answer your questions or help you come up with questions to ask your doctor at your next visit.
DENTAL CLINICS
The Vancouver Health Department Dental Clinics offer dental treatment for school aged children up to grade seven. One cleaning and checkup a year is free. If dental work is required, there is a minimal charge. Call your local Vancouver Health department.
Downtown Community Health Centre 604-255-3151 Dental Clinic 604-255-2729 569 Powell Low-cost drop-in dental clinic for adults. Best to phone to book appointments, but emergency drop-in is available. Also offers a medical clinic for people living in the area, will see some patients who don’t have medical insurance.
Vancouver Community College Dental Hygiene Clinic 604-443-8499 250 W. Pender St. Open Sept-June. Services include: cleaning & fluoride treatment for children 4-21 years. Services for adults include: polishing, oral hygiene, fluoride treatment and fissure sealant, spread over a minimum of six, two-hour appointments. Call to register.
UBC Dental Clinic 604-822-2112 2188 Westbrook Mall Dentistry students perform dental services during the school year. Call about the waiting list. The work you need has to fit teaching criteria. The Clinic prefers to service people who need more than three services. The charge is about 30 percent below standard dental fees.
Reach Dental Clinic 604-254-1331 1145 Commercial Drive Complete dental service at 20 percent below fee guide. May be a waiting list for new patients.
SCHOOL IS A BUILDING THAT HAS FOUR WALLS WITH TOMORROW INSIDE. (Lon Watters)
CAREER AND EDUCATION PROGRAMS
Listed below are some groups and agencies that provide general information on employment opportunities and career counseling. They can help you identify and set realistic educational and career goals, and develop job search, interviewing, resume writing, stress management and other work-related skills.
AWARE (Assisting Women’s Awareness 604-502-5355 Regarding Employment) Surrey 403-7337 137th St. Women-only career research and planning program.
New Westminster 604-525-0294 100-522 7th St. A self-directed resource centre with computer and internet access.
Buxton Consulting 604-463-4312 11830-223rd St., Maple Ridge Employment services, career assessment, job search.
Coast Foundation Society, 604-872-3502/876-6345 Transitional Employment 295 E 11th Ave. Various exploration programs for people with mental illnesses.
Community Centre Night School Courses
Most community centres offer evening and weekend courses each season. Ask for a brochure on up-coming programs. When you are registering, you may also request a subsidized rate if you are on low income for any courses offered by a city run community centre. Programs offered vary from recreational and arts and crafts, to secretarial, car maintenance and self-improvement.
JobStart Pre-employment Training Program 604-254-5111 2120 Commercial Drive If your are receiving income assistance and are 19 years of age and over with a minimum grade 8 education, you can apply for this program. Courses include: Employment readiness, job search, personal development, education upgrading, computer skills and first aid training. Ongoing support. PACT Employment Services 604-877-0033 250 Kingsway St. Provides services to people over 18 years with a mental health barrier (depression, anxiety, etc.) looking for over 16 hrs. of work/week. Programs include career exploration workshops, individual employment counseling, job search skills training, interview practice and techniques, supported job search, post employment support and a morning job search drop-in. Services are free.
Part-time classes Vancouver School Board 604-713-5000 1595 W. 10th Ave. Night and weekend classes on many topics. Includes: ESL, secretarial, bookkeeping, recreation, arts and crafts, languages, personal improvement, dance, shop classes, typing, sewing, business, management. Also includes certificate programs, offered at schools around the city. Flyers come out before summer, spring, fall and winter. Call to find out when their next night school sessions start or pick up a flyer at their office. Some diploma programs. There is a fee charged for each course.
Pre Employment Program – PACE 2 604-254-2223 1943 E. Hastings If your have children, are on income assistance and live in the Grandview, Mount Pleasant, Downtown Eastside/Hastings or Strathcona areas, you qualify to apply to the Parents and Children for Education and Employment (PACE) program. This pre-employment program provides parents with up-grading, personal development, computer applications and job search skills, which are necessary to enter the job market or to enroll in further career/education training.
Western Institute for the Deaf And Hard of Hearing 604-736-7391 2125 W 7th Ave. Provides services to the Deaf and hard of hearing including employment and vocational counseling. Audiology services, technical aids support and medical Sign Language interpreting.
YWCA Focus at Work 604-688-4666 602-1281 W. Georgia St. Helping single mothers and immigrant women enter the workforce. You are eligible if you are unemployed and living in Greater Vancouver. Program helps to assess skills, establish career goals and develop employment skills necessary to re-enter the workforce. Daycare and transportation subsidies available. Women’s Information Centre (YWCA) 604-895-5790 4th Fl., 535 Hornby St. Provides information, referrals, a women centered library, and employment materials, job postings, daily newspaper, university and college calendars, information on employment programs and services, and books on career planning, resumes and cover letters, and starting your own business.
FREEBIES & CHEAPIES
FOOD, CLOTHING & OTHER NECESSITIES
Carnegie Centre 604-665-2220 401 Main Street The food is good with veg and some vegan options. The staff will try to accommodate your needs.
Downtown Eastside Women’s Centre 604-681-8480 302 Columbia Free clothing room, arts & crafts workshops, out-trips. Donations of women’s clothing are welcome. Full meals Mon & Thurs and soup on other days, Sat includes sandwiches.
First United Church 604-681-8365 320 E. Hastings Std. Free clothing, Shower facilities and Wish program (for female sex-trade workers).
Kiwassa Neighbourhood House 604-254-5401 2425 Oxford St. Breakfast club; every morning Mon-Fri. They offer a nutritious meal of cereal, toast, pancakes, eggs or French toast. All-you-can-eat and pay-what-you-can. Food Bank for families on Tues. Please bring ID for all family members as well as proof of address. Occasional community dinners. Contact Family Programs Coordinator for more info.
St. James Community Services Society 604-606-0300/606-0345 329 Powell St. Five free clothing items/week. Some kitchen items and household furniture available. Food bank referrals for families only. Job Info Line 606-0300 updated weekly. Surrey Family Place 604-583-3844 10310 154th St. Offers low cost lunch and clothing store, as well as referrals to community resources. The Toy Bank 604-540-8850 659 Columbia St., New Westminster Jan-Nov free clothing and toys, Dec free toys and food hampers only. Registration fee (BC benefits may cover the cost). Three days/month, every four months full wardrobe, with every visit free toys and toys for special occasions.. There is a list of types of bicycles available, new gifts for birthdays, and some items for children with special needs. Maternity clothes, baby layettes, and baby furniture may be available. Shopping is Tues & Sat 10-3, must bring proof of income and family’s medical cards on each visit.
The Quest Outreach Society 604-602-0186 1102 E Georgia Serves hot meals in the Downtown Eastside. Distributes food hampers to families in Burnaby and West End. Provides emergency food delivery to community centres and neighborhood houses.
Union Gospel Mission 604-251-1424/253-3323 616 E. Cordova St. Free clothing (Mon, Wed, Fri – when the drop-in centre is open). Also single mothers’ emergency help (e.g. occasional food hampers, clothing). Thurs - furniture and household items. Meals served. Call for times.
YWCA Crabtree Corner 604-689-2808 101 E Cordova St. Free children’s (some women’s) clothing available Wed with free soup and bannock at noon. Parenting workshops, preventive health information, Single Mom’s support meetings & food bank for those with children 6 and under.
WRAGS (Welfare Rights Advocacy Group Society) 604-521-6955 476 E Columbia, New Westminster Bed Warehouse: Unit 330-3771 Jacombs Rd., Richmond 10-2 Mon to Fri (best to go before noon). Cleaned, sanitized beds are sold for $90 and delivered to your home. Your financial aid worker must pre-authorize bed purchase for the cleaned beds. The unsanitized beds can be picked up free of charge without authorization
TIP: Many grocery stores offer a delivery service for a reasonable price. For example, Safeway charges around $4 to deliver groceries which is cheaper than taking a taxi if you have a large load of groceries.
CHEAP CLOTHING, FURNITURE & HOUSEHOLD GOODS
Canadian Diabetes Association 604-732-1331 360-1385 W. 8th Ave.
Common Sense Thrift Centre 604-583-1361 Lower Fraser Valley Cerebral Palsy Assoc, 9460-140th St., Surrey
Deltassist, Information Centre 604-946-9526 4891 Delta, Lad. Provides coats for kids, Christmas bureau, Christmas hampers, toy dept, and a free goods registry.
Delta Hospital Auxiliary Thrift Shop 604-946-1455 4816 Delta St., Delta
Hangs Ups (Canadian Mental Health Assoc. Thrift Store) 604-251-9779 1832 Commercial Dr. Second hand women’s, men’s and children’s clothes, shoes, gloves.
Junior League of Greater Vancouver Thrift Shop 604-876-4921 335 E. Broadway
Modern Service Thrift Shop/Daisies Treasure Trove 604-536-8232 14955 Victoria Dr., White Rock
Union Gospel Thrift Stores 659 E. Hastings St. 604-254-8721 201-15135-101 Ave., Surrey 604-583-0069
Richmond Family Place Society Thrift Shop 604-278-4336 6560 Gilbert Road.
Salvation Army Stores Head Office - 604-944-8747 Please call store in your area for regular hours 5652-176th St., Cloverdale/Surrey Border 576-6217 4099 Hastings, Burnaby 299-0264 14887-108thAve., Surrey 581-9833 19868 Langley By-pass, Langley 530-1321 3-12011 224thSt., Maple Ridge 463-8213 811 Columbia St., New Westminster 521-0319 241 Lonsdale St., North Vancouver 980-4413 2275 Elgin St., Port Coquitlam 942-0505 5491 No. 3 Road, Richmond 278-5997 7093 King George Hwy, Surrey 590-1438 2714 W. Broadway, Vancouver 734-1821 261 E. 12thAve., Vancouver 874-4721
Share Thrift Store (Share Family & Community Services) 604-931-2451 2404 John’s St., Port Moody
SPCA Thrift Stores 3626 W. Broadway, Vancouver 604-736-4136 1523 Pemberton, North Vancouver 604-983-9522 5400 Minoru St., Richmond 604-276-2477
St. James Clothing and Furniture Store 604-606-0345 394 Powell St.
Value Village Stores 7350 Edmonds, Burnaby 604-540-4066 44540A Clarke, Coquitlam 604-937-7087 110-22255 Dewdney Trunk Rd., Maple Ridge 604-467-5585 5666 Glover, Langley 604-533-1663 6415 Victoria Dr., South Vancouver 604-327-4434 10642 King George Hwy., Surrey 604-588-5225 1820 E. Hastings St., Vancouver 604-254-4282
RECREATION, FUN & CULTURE
LEISURE RESOURCES
Many of us experience barriers and constraints when it comes to participating in leisure. Listed below are 3 common leisure barriers and ways to compensate or overcome them.
Barrier: Transportation § Take the bus – many buses have bike racks, also, remember that buying a bus pass is cheaper than buying single bus tickets. § Take the Sky Train § Take the Mini Bus – many municipalities offer this service, $3.50 will take you anywhere within the city. § Transit Information – for personalized transit information including routes and schedules call BC Transit Customer Information at 604-521-0400
Barrier: Money $$ § Municipality Parks & Recreation Services –contact the Leisure Access Coordinator and ask about getting a Leisure Access Card. (see below for more info). § Public Non-Profit Organizations – Boys & Girls Clubs (604-321-5621), offer a variety of opportunities for children up to 18 years of age. YWCA (604-895-8500), offers a variety of services for women and single mothers. Burnaby Information and Community Services Society (604-299-5778), offers information on community and social services, resources, activities, clubs, and recreational facilities. § Church Groups, they can be a great way to meet people and often offer recreational opportunities, such as craft guilds or sports teams. § Neighborhood houses. § Libraries are a great source of information and they are free. The staff are there to help you, there is free internet access and scheduled activities for children. § Free newspapers and magazines such as the Georgia Strait, West Coast Parent Magazine and the community newspaper are a great way to find out what is going on in your community and the services available.
Barrier: Support & Motivation § Single Parent Groups § Parent & Tot classes – contact Municipal Parks & Recreation Services. § Volunteering – many municipalities have a Volunteer Centre Burnaby Volunteer Centre – 604-294-5533 Vancouver Volunteer Centre – 604-875-9144
Neighborhood houses
Community centres and neighborhood houses offer fun activities (either for free or for a small fee), like special holiday events, Halloween parties, Easter egg hunts, and Chinese New Year celebrations, and various drop-in programs for youth, children and families. Some are geared towards families with children under 6 years. Many run on-going support groups for mothers that involve social activities, outings and workshops, and free childcare is provided. Neighborhood houses and community centres also offer supervised after school, recreational, educational and cultural activities, and summer and holiday day camps for kids. Subsidies may be available for camp and registration fees through your worker or the camp selected.
For parents with children under 6yrs there are many community centres, health units, family places’ and neighborhood houses that run activities that encourage adult socializing and provide help supervising children.
For the community centre near you call your local Board of Parks and Recreation. At your request they can mail you a Parks and Recreation Guide to Leisure Services, which lists community centres, fitness centres, golf courses, ice rinks and arenas, indoor and outdoor pools, racquet courts as well as other info. Please note that most rinks and pools have regular free times.
You can also check the phone book’s blue pages under Municipalities for recreation centres and libraries in your area. Parks Board Offices Vancouver 604-257-8400 Burnaby 604-294-7450 Coquitlam 604-933-6000 Delta 604-946-3293 Maple Ridge 604-467-7346 Mission 604-820-5350 North Vancouver 604-990-3800 Ridge Meadows 604-465-2452 Port Coquitlam 604-927-7900 Richmond Recreation & Culture 604-276-4107 Richmond Parks Board 604-244-1208
LEISURE ACCESS CARDS
The Leisure Access Card allows you and your children to swim and skate at city run facilities for free. Just sign-in at the registration desk. LAC cards also allow you to ride the Stanley Park Train and attend the Children’s Zoo at half price. All people surviving on welfare are eligible to receive a LAC card. You are also eligible when on EI or a designated low-income family (please call to inquire as to allowable gross income).
How to get a Leisure Access Card
§ Community centres have LAC application forms. You can complete and process it on the spot provided you bring the required documentation: § A copy of your welfare stub § The LAC application form that your worker has stamped § Income tax notice of assessment § Or EI documentation
§ You may also fill out an application form and mail or fax it to the Parks Board office. You will receive your LAC card in the mail within six weeks.
§ Parks Board Office: Attn. Leisure Access Cards 2099 Beach Ave., Vancouver 604-257-8400/ FAX 257-8501 Note: Some centres require you to have their membership card in addition to a LAC.
Pick up Free Newspapers or local community papers. Often have listings for upcoming events which are free. Check out these two free newspapers – Common Ground and Shared Vision. Available at libraries and health food stores.
SOME FREE OR LOW COST RECREATION
Chinese Apozeur Therapy 604-730-5485 Riviene Consulting Free tour of Chinese Pharmacy Seymour Demonstration Forest 604-987-1273 Public Tours & Education Programs, N. Van. Free suspension bridge, hiking etc.
Bloedel Floral Conservatory 604-257-8584 Queen Elizabeth Park 33rd at Cambie St Open all year, Admission Free - $4.00 Spectacular tropical plant displays, exotic free-flying birds & parrots under a magnificent trodietic dome.
UBC Botanical Garden 604-822-3928 6804 S.W. Marine Drive www.ubcbotanicalgarden.org Open all year, 10 am – 6 pm, Admission $2.50-$6.00 In a 28 hectare/70 acre coastal forest with the authentic Japanese Nitobe Memorial Garden nearby. Rare & exotic plants from around the world.
UBC Museum of Anthropology 604-822-5087 6393 N.W. Marine Drive www.moa.ubc.ca Open all year, Admission $5.00-$9.00 Extraordinary arts from B.C.’s First Nations & other world cultures are displayed in an award-winning building.
VanDusen Botanical Garden 604-878-9274 5251 Oak St. www.vandusengarden.org Open all year, Admission $3.25-$7.25 Spectacular 55 acre garden is a living museum of plants from around the world. Beautiful in every season. Free parking.
Park and Tilford Gardens and Shops 604-984-8200 440-333 Brooksbank Ave., N. Vancouver www.gardeninspiredtourism.org Open all year, Admission free European style garden, 8 themed gardens, cool pools & dazzling displays interwoven with herbs, roses, towering bamboo & old world architecture.
Burnaby Village Museum 604-293-6500 6501 Dear Lake Ave., Burnaby Open Spring, Summer, Fall, 11am – 4:30pm, Admission Free-$7.80 Costumed townsfolk visit with guests amidst 30 full-scale buildings in an open-air historical village. Easy to access & fun to visit.
International Buddhist Society 604-274-2822 9160 Steveston Hwy, Richmond www.buddhistemple.org Open all year, Admission Free Exquisite example of Chinese palatial architecture in North America. Discover the traditional Chinese art & culture inside this magnificent Buddhist Temple.
Surrey Museum 604-502-6456 6022-176 Street, Surrey Located on the Cloverdale Fairgrounds, Admission by Donation Hours – Tuesday-Saturday 9-4
Historic Stewart Farm 604-502-6456 13723 Crescent Road, Surrey Located in Elgin Heritage Park, Admission by donation Hours – Tues-Fri 10-4, Sat-Sun 12-4
BC Sports Hall of Fame & Museum 604-687-5520 Gate ‘A’, BC Place Stadium www.bcsportshalloffame.com Open all year, Admission Free-$6.00 Canada’s largest & most dynamic sports museum showcases BC’s world class athletes & heroes, 20,000 sq. ft. of family fun.
Christ Church Cathedral 604-682-3848 690 Burrard St. www.cathedral.vancouver.bc.ca Open all year, Admission free Built in 1889, this is the oldest stone church in the lower mainland. Beautiful Gothic-style with many stained glass windows.
Vancouver Art Gallery 604-662-4700 750 Hornby St. www.vanartgallery.bc.ca Open all year, Admission $6.50-$12.50, but admission is free on certain days – call for info Largest art gallery in Western Canada, National & International art by groundbreaking contemporary artists & major historical figures. Call for hours.
CO-DEPENDENTS ANONYMOUS Lower Mainland Community of CoDA Groups Vancouver, BC Canada & area – revised June 2003 CITY DAY TIME GROUP ADDRESSNAME
Burnaby Tues. 7:00pm Hope CoDA BCCW Group #CABC228 Must be cleared to attend. Institutional Meeting Women Only
Chilliwack Wed. 7:00pm Chilliwack St. Mary’s CoDA Catholic Church 8909 Mary Street Croup #CABC208 Chilliwack
Coquitlam Thurs. 7:30pm Coquitlam Good Shepherd CoDA Lutheran Church Group #CABC039 1504 Spruce Ave., Coquitlam
Hope Tues. 7:30pm Hope CoDA 20280 Kettle Valley Group #CABC221 Hope
New Fri. 7:30pm Freedom Group 514 Carnarvon, Westminster Group #CABC074 New Westminster
N Vancouver Sat 10:00am Saturday Morn St. Andrews Church Group #CABC007 (Hall) North Shore 1044 St. Georges N Vancouver
Vancouver Mon. 7:30pm West End CoDA Family Youth & Group #CABC222 Addiction Services Centre (free parking in rear) 1505 Robson St., Vancouver CITY DAY TIME GROUP ADDRESSNAME
W Vancouver Tues. 7:00pm Avalon W Van W Vancouver Avalon Centre (women only) 203-657 Marine Dr W Vancouver
White Rock Tues. 7:30pm White Rock/ Star of the Sea Surrey Group #CABC223 15262 Pacific Ave., White Rock CoDA Information Line (604)515-5585 FIRST NATIONSCOUNSELING
Hey Way Noqu Healing Circle 604-874-1831 33 E. Broadway Provides a holistic approach for urban First Nations and Metis people and families healing from chemical addictions and co-dependencies. Services offered: outpatient, one-to-one, children and youth counseling, couples and crises counseling, groups, outreach services and education workshops, residential treatment pre-care, assessment and referral, follow-up and after-care services.
Indian Homemakers Association of BC 604-876-0944 251 E 11th Ave. Regional head office for First Nations women’s organizations. Provides addiction, family education, crisis and family violence counseling. Offers Eagles Women’s Self-Healing Circle, traditional parenting program, mothers’ dance group, life skills training, community outreach, information and assistance on child welfare, health care, treatment centres and race relations. Advocates on behalf of First Nations women, families, elders and the disabled.
EDUCATION
Aboriginal Education Branch, Ministry of Education, Victoria, BC This branch exists to make the school system more relevant and responsive to Aboriginal students, and helps all learners become more aware of Aboriginal culture. Responsible for ensuring that Aboriginal students in the public school system have the same opportunities for achievement as others, establishes partnerships and supports education initiatives, supports cultural awareness for teachers and administrations, ensures Aboriginal history, culture and views are reflected in the draft Intermediate and Graduation policy documents. To contact the Aboriginal Education Branch toll-free, call Inquiry BC at 660-2421 and ask them to transfer you to the branch at 356-0872.
Native Education Centre 604-873-3761 285 E 5th Ave. Provides educational programming including adult basic education, post-secondary programs and professional development courses. Its mandate is to provide quality educational, training and outreach programs for First Nations adults. Current programs include Aboriginal adult basic education, office administration training, criminal justice studies, family and community counseling, Aboriginal land stewardship, tourism management, and First Host. Private college, accredited with the Private Post-Secondary Education Commission.
Pacific Association of First Nations Women 604-873-1833 209-96 E. Broadway Works to preserve the spiritual, emotional, physical, and educational well-being of Native people. Sponsors projects relating to the awareness of Aboriginal cultures, and provides scholarships, bursaries, and mentorships, as well as workshops on women’s health issues. Also works towards creating a network and information exchange between government agencies, educational institutions, and Aboriginal organizations.
Tsleil-Waututh Nation (Burrard Indian Band) 604-929-3454 3075 Takaya Dr., North Vancouver Administers and organizes the affairs of the Burrard Indian Reserve. Provides an alcohol and drug worker, family violence counselor, residential school counselor, community health worker and education coordinator. The education coordinator develops First Nations cultural programs for school districts, provides consultation to post-secondary institutions and advocates for students and families. Provides workshops on these areas of concern.
FIRST NATIONS STUDENT SERVICES ACADEMIC, TECHNICAL COLLEGES & UNIVERSITIES
Most facilities have First Nations Student Services, advisors, counselors and/or student unions. Call the facility of your choice and ask to speak with the First Nations advisor. They can assist you with course selection and registration, orientation, referrals concerning educational and Aboriginal community resources, liaison between government, the school and your band, personal and educational advocacy and consultation, information on financial aid and housing and encouragement! UBC First Nations House of Learning produces a program calendar that includes an extensive listing of Vancouver-based First Nations agencies and other educational institutions.
British Columbia Institute of Technology Burnaby (BCIT) 604-432-8474 Aboriginal Programs & Services 3700 Willingdon Has First Nations Programs and Services Department. Ask to talk to the First Nations Advisor. First Nations House of Learning, Faculty of Education 604-822-8940 UBC 1985 West Mall The First Nations House of Learning is an educational institution whose primary goal is to assist First Nations people to enroll in post-secondary education. Call to request the First Nations House of Learning calendar. This lists and explains the courses and services available, bursary information and First Nations agencies.
Langara College, 100 W 49th, Vancouver 604-323-5511 First Nations Counselor 604-323-5293 First Nations Co-ordinator 604-323-5645
Native Indian Teachers Education Program (NITEP) 604-822-5240 UBC, Faculty of Education, 1985 West Mall
Simon Fraser University First Nations Office 604-291-4774 Native Student, 888 University Dr., Burnaby Mountain, Burnaby SFU has a First Nations Resource Centre and a First Nations Student Union.
EMPLOYMENT AND TRAINING
Aboriginal Employment Services 604-687-7480 33 W. Cordova
Choices Pre-employment Bridging Program Helping Spirit Lodge Society 604-872-6649 3965 Dumfries St. Ongoing applications. A 20-week program for First Nations women. Learn personal management, discover the skills you have, and build on them along with new skills. Computer training, resume and cover letter writing, field trips, professional images, job market, G.E.D. assessment, literacy, First Aid, breaking the cycle workshops on domestic violence for women, build a new future for your children. 4 week work placement.
First Nations Employment Centre 604-605-8901 440 Cambie
United Native Nations (UNN) 604-688-1821 110 – 425 Carrall Represents and protects the interests of BC Aboriginal peoples. Provides career planning services, subsidized housing for First Nations People in rural areas, a scholarship fund etc.
Urban Aboriginal Employment Development Program 604-251-4844 Vancouver Aboriginal Friendship Centre Society 1607 E. Hastings St. Offers employment-related services such as career and vocational counseling, info on financing education/training, job search techniques, a job postings board, job referrals and placements, etc.
HEALTH AND HEALING
Healing Our Spirit BC First Nations AIDS Society 604-983-8774 319 Seymour Blvd., North Vancouver Provides educational workshops to increase awareness and promote prevention of HIV/AIDS in both urban and rural First Nations communities. Peer support, healing circles, wellness plans, advocacy, support, youth outreach, and small resource library.
Residential School Healing Centre 604-254-9900 455 E. Hastings St. Offers a holistic approach to healing for First Nations people who have been traumatized by sexual, emotional, physical, and/or spiritual abuse as a result of direct or indirect (i.e. Intergenerational affect) contact with the residential school system. Counselors, elders, a massage therapist and an acupuncturist work together to provide a safe and nurturing environment for survivors who want to begin the healing journey.
Sheway Project 604-658-1200 369 Hawks Ave. A community based outreach program providing support services to pregnant women and their children in the Downtown Eastside.
Vancouver Aboriginal Friendship Centre 604-251-4844 1607 E. Hastings St. Community centre programs and services provide social, economic, cultural, education, training, health, recreational and other life-enhancing assistance. Vancouver Native Health Walk-in Clinic 604-255-9766 449 E. Hastings St. Provides service on a first-come, first-served basis for Aboriginal people and others. Clients may or may not have medical coverage. Blood testing, referral to specialists, physician consultation, methadone treatment etc.
HOUSING
The following housing societies provide housing to low income First Nations families, singles, single parents and students. Rent is subsidized and based on approximately 25 percent of your gross income from employment, Employment Insurance or the full amount of your shelter allowance from the Ministry of Social Development and Economic Security. Call their offices to have an application form mailed or faxed to you. Some Native organizations, such as the Vancouver Aboriginal Friendship Centre or the United Native Nations, have application forms on hand, and can offer to fax your forms to the housing societies for you. There is a waiting list for subsidized housing.
Aboriginal Youth House, United Native Nations Society (UNN) 604-688-1821 110-425 Carrall
Kekinow Native Housing 604-591-5299 1014-7445 132nd St., Surrey
Lu’ma Native Housing Society 604-876-0811 301-7 W. 7th Ave.
Vancouver Native Housing Society 604-320-3312 3725 – 2nd Ave.
RECREATIONAL
Carnegie Community Centre 604-665-2220 401 Main Street Low-cost cafeteria, library, learning centre, theatre, gym, weight room, poolroom, etc. First Nations cultural sharing program and a variety of recreations programs.
Tillicum Native Centre 604-873-3767 2422 Main Street Nonprofit Christian society providing counseling, referral, drop-in activity centre and Bible study for First Nations people.
Vancouver Aboriginal Friendship Centre 604-251-4844 1607 E. Hastings St.
ADDRESS BOOK
Poison Control: 1-800-567-8911 Crisis Centre: 604-872-3311 Emergency: Call 911 Non-Emergency:
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