Homeless Advocacy Group Secures New Downtown Space After Eviction Threat
An organization dedicated to helping Calgary's homeless population has found a new home in the city's downtown core after facing its own potential homelessness. BeTheChangeYYC, a street outreach group that supports vulnerable individuals, was informed by the city last July that it needed to vacate its location at 316 7th Avenue S.E. by December 31.
Extended Deadline and New Location
The original eviction deadline was extended as the non-profit struggled to find suitable replacement space. According to CEO Chaz Smith, the organization has now secured a 1,100-square-foot vacant space at 7th Avenue and 8th Street S.W., with plans to move in within a month after minor interior preparations are completed.
"We need more supportive housing and we've had that need for many decades," said Smith regarding the ongoing challenge of helping Calgary's homeless population. "There's a need at this corner and we don't want folks to have to steal jackets and food from local businesses here."
Critical Downtown Presence
Smith emphasized the importance of maintaining a headquarters in the city core along the CTrain line to ensure optimal access to clients. The organization, which Smith founded 11 years ago, provides essential services including:
- Clothing and food distribution
- Hygiene kits
- Connections to community services
- Naloxone for drug overdose reversal
The group operates with teams of six that include medical professionals and social workers, supported by 200 volunteers who fan out across downtown and inner city areas.
Building Safety Concerns
In a letter to tenants last July, the city explained that the previous building's critical systems were becoming increasingly unreliable and could fail, particularly during extreme weather. Repairing these systems would have been cost-prohibitive. The city stated: "The Block 40 building systems are becoming increasingly unreliable, with the potential for increased safety risks for staff and clients."
The building, which once housed the Calgary Police Service's administration, is slated for sale by the city.
Financial Commitment and Growing Need
With the end of subsidized space, Smith will now pay $2,000 monthly in rent out of his own pocket to maintain operations. "It's my organization and I really believe in it," he said. "Our people need our services more than ever—it will not impact our programming or put an additional burden on our budget."
Smith praised the city for its understanding in extending the eviction deadline, noting that officials recognize BeTheChangeYYC as a valuable asset, particularly during the challenging winter months that have just ended. "The city's been very gracious with that and they recognize BeTheChange is a very valuable asset and don't want folks to suffer more than they have to," he said.
As Calgary's homeless population continues to grow, organizations like BeTheChangeYYC face increasing demands for their services while navigating their own operational challenges in maintaining accessible downtown locations.
