Give Back
Sharing is caring. These Calgary charities do real, hands-on work, and there are plenty of easy ways to help: donate, book a volunteer shift with friends, or drop off the good blazer you never wear.
Food
- Calgary Food BankEmergency food hampers for Calgarians who need them, sorted and packed by volunteers. Book a volunteer shift with friends or coworkers.
- Brown Bagging for Calgary's KidsLunches every school day for kids who would otherwise go without. A simple, specific way to help.
Shelter and housing
- Calgary Drop-In CentreShelter, meals and help finding housing and work for people experiencing homelessness. Known around town as the DI.
- Inn from the ColdEmergency shelter and housing support for families with children. Gifts of toiletries, diapers and kids' items go a long way.
- Hope MissionMeals, shelter and recovery programs for people living rough. Busy all winter.
- Alpha HouseShelter, detox and street outreach for people affected by addiction.
- CUPSHealth care, housing and early learning for families facing poverty, all under one roof.
Women and families
- Dress for Success CalgaryProfessional clothing, styling and career support for women heading back to work. Donate the good blazer you never wear.
- Women in Need SocietyThrift stores that fund support for women and families. Donate clothing and household goods, or shop there.
- Children's Cottage SocietyA crisis nursery and family support that keeps kids safe when parents are overwhelmed.
- Big Brothers Big Sisters of CalgaryMentors for kids who need one more steady adult in their corner. A few hours a week makes a difference.
Seniors
- Calgary Seniors' Resource SocietyVolunteers who drive older adults to appointments, help with groceries, visit and call to check in, plus social workers for seniors in crisis. Volunteering here is as simple as a weekly visit.
- Unison (formerly Kerby Centre)The downtown hub for adults 50 and up, formerly the Kerby Centre, with meals, programs, tax help and support for seniors facing abuse or housing trouble.
- Calgary Meals on WheelsHot, nutritious meals delivered to seniors and anyone who can't easily cook for themselves. Volunteer drivers are always welcome.
Animals
- Calgary Humane SocietyCalgary's big open-admission shelter for cats, dogs and small animals, with adoption, fostering and a pet food bank. Volunteer, foster or adopt.
- AARCSAlberta Animal Rescue Crew Society rescues animals from across the province, including remote northern communities, through a huge network of foster homes. Fostering is the best way to help.
- MEOW FoundationRescue, care and adoption for cats in need. Many of the cats at Regal Cat Café are theirs.
- Parachutes for PetsKeeps pets with the people who love them when times get hard, with pet food, vet help and safekeeping during a crisis. Their Pet Advocacy Centre helps owners facing hardship.
- Calgary Wildlife Rehabilitation SocietyTreats injured and orphaned wild animals, from owls to beavers, and releases them back into the wild. Call them if you find an injured animal.