Doors Open to Calgary's Vulnerable

For the first time in Calgary, more than 20 social service sector agencies, non-profit organizations, City and Provincial departments have partnered to create a hub of service and support for Calgary’s vulnerable population.

The Safe Communities Opportunity and Resource Centre (SORCe) opened its doors to the public on Tuesday, June 18, 2013. Unfortunately, only a few days later the doors had to be closed due to the flood. Nearly three months to the day, SORCe will once again re-open to the public.

This grassroots initiative is supported by community-based agencies, working together to enhance capacity and leverage existing resources to help vulnerable people. SORCe is a referral and access point to connect people to services, programs and support that currently exist within the community.

"SORce demonstrates the tremendous results communities and organizations can achieve when they work together," said Premier Alison Redford, QC. "By connecting Albertans to the wide variety of services and programs available to them, we can ensure all Albertans get the support they need to reach their full potential."

Resources for housing, mental health, addictions, training and employment will be offered through partnering agencies.

The development of SORCe has been guided by a Community Leadership Group with representation and assistance from the following agencies:

Calgary Homeless Foundation	Alberta Health Services
United Way of Calgary and Area	Calgary Catholic Immigration Society
Calgary Police Service	Calgary Drop-In Centre
Alpha House	NeighbourLink
The Alex	Community and Neighbourhood Services
City of Calgary Animal and Bylaw Services	Office of the Chief Crown Prosecutor
Office of the Chief Probation Officer	Calgary Public Library
Immigrant Services Calgary	Inform Calgary
Inn from the Cold	Alberta Works
Wood’s homes	Kerby Centre
Immigrant Access Fund	Distress Centre
Canadian Mental Health Association

For more information on SORCe, go to www.scorce.ca.