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Homelessness Services

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Resources to help you access basic needs such as shelter, food, clothing, hygiene facilities, and personal identification.

Homeless Shelters

A listing of shelters in British Columbia that is updated twice daily, at around 11:30am and again at 7:30pm. You can also call 2-1-1 for help finding an available bed for the night.

Same basic content as the BC211 list above, but presented in a more user friendly format that allows you to filter by city, type of shelter, as well as by other important factors (e.g., pets allowed, wheelchair accessible, etc.). Availability of beds not updated as frequently as the BC211 list.

A searchable listing of BC shelter options. Updated daily. Includes year-round shelters, extreme weather response shelters (open and/or closed), drop-in centres, and temporary shelters.

A concise listing of shelters in Metro Vancouver, ideal for printing and posting on bulletin boards. Updated several times per year. 

Meals and Groceries

A Google map that highlights places in Vancouver where people can go to get free or low cost meals and grocery items.  

Individuals with a low-income, who have a disability, or who are on an old-age pension can access affordably-priced supplies at Quest's not-for-profit grocery markets. To become a client, see if your local neighbourhood house or social service provider is able to fill out a referral on your behalf. Check here for current hours of operation.

The GVFB only distributes food to clients that have a registered residence/address as much of the food they provide is uncooked. The GVFB defers those who are unhoused to one of their 150 Community Agencies.

Hygiene and Clothing

In addition to low cost meals three times daily, free showers and laundry facilities are available at the Gathering Place (609 Helmcken St). Check here for full details and current hours of operation.

In addition to low cost meals three times daily, free showers and laundry facilities are available at the Evelyne Saller Centre (320 Alexander St). Check here for full details and current hours of operation.

A list of places in British Columbia where people can wash and do their laundry for free.

Personal Identification

Provincial Government Identification:

Federal Government Identification:

For personal assistance with the process of replacing your lost or stolen identification, try the following organizations:

Also provides a safe place to store personal ID to prevent it from being lost or stolen in the future.

One-to-One Assistance

Advocacy Organizations

Useful Websites

Click on "Homelessness" on the home page and enter your postal code to find services in your neighbourhood. You can also search by specific type of service.

Contains useful information about shelters, financial assistance, food resources, and other amenities for people experiencing homelessness in the Vancouver area.

A mobile-friendly website that connects Vancouver residents to nearby locations for shelter, food, medical care, personal hygiene, and technology resources.

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