For more than a decade, SORCe has been a place where people experiencing or at risk of homelessness could walk in, be welcomed without judgment, and receive the support they needed, all in one space.
Since opening in 2013, SORCe has evolved into a trusted, multi-agency collaborative model that has supported thousands of people every year. It began as a bold idea championed by Calgary Police Service, launched with the support of The City of Calgary, and strengthened through the leadership of United Way of Calgary and Area and the Calgary Homeless Foundation. Today, it stands as one of Calgary’s most recognized low-barrier access points for people seeking housing, health, justice, financial, or basic needs support.
A decade of partnership and impact
Over the years, SORCe’s co-located model allowed agencies to work side by side, offer warm hand-offs, and coordinate care in real time. This meant people could tell their story once and receive multiple forms of support a significant shift from navigating complex systems alone.
Last year alone:
- 7,661 individuals received support
- 20,356 service encounters were delivered
- 9,325 housing and shelter supports were provided
- 3,429 system navigation needs were met
- 5,132 essential items were distributed
For many, SORCe became a familiar, trusted space ,a place where they felt seen, supported, and connected.
Our partners: the foundation of SORCe’s collaborative model
SORCe was built, and continues to operate through strong, intentional partnerships with organizations across Calgary’s homeless-serving, health, and justice sectors. Each partner contributes unique expertise that strengthens the “no wrong door” approach and ensures people can access coordinated care in one place.
SORCe Partners are:
• Aboriginal Friendship Centre of Calgary
• AHS – Foothills Psychiatry Unit
• AHS – PACT-CTO
• Calgary Police Service – District 1
• Calgary Young Offender Centre (CYOC)
• City of Calgary – Homelessness & Downtown Initiatives
• Government of Alberta – Navigation Centre
• United Way of Calgary and Area
These partners have played a key role in shaping SORCe’s collaborative environment, where warm hand-offs, shared knowledge, and real-time communication allow people to receive the support they need without navigating the system alone.
Their commitment to working together has made SORCe a trusted entry point for people experiencing or at risk of homelessness, and a vital part of Calgary’s broader support network.
What partners say about SORCe
Partners describe it as a model built on trust, teamwork, and a shared commitment to supporting people’s health, safety, and stability. They highlighted its trauma-informed approach, its integrated supports, and the strength of its front-line team.
One partner shared: “SORCe has built a lot of trust with the people who use it. The partnerships that exist in one space make it truly unique.
Another noted: “Referrals between partners are more successful because of the proximity. It allows us to work together in ways that really matter.”
Honouring the City of Calgary
SORCe’s home at the City’s Crossroads building made this work possible. The rent-free space allowed agencies to collaborate deeply and reliably for more than 13 years. It ensured access for people in the downtown core and created a space where integrated care could grow and evolve.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the City of Calgary for its long-standing partnership and support.
A foundation for what comes next
With the upcoming move, this moment is not a farewell it’s a reflection. The model that has shaped SORCe over the last decade continues to guide us forward: dignity, collaboration, and coordinated care.
As we prepare for this next chapter, we remain deeply committed to the people who rely on SORCe, to our partners, and to the community we serve.
Thank you to everyone who helped build SORCe into what it is today.
Your impact will continue in every step we take forward.
