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Today, on World Homeless Day, we are called to reflect on a global crisis that affects millions of people in every corner of the world: homelessness. Here in Calgary, it’s a crisis that particularly impacts families—many of whom are facing housing instability due to skyrocketing rents, a lack of affordable options, and broader economic challenges. At Inn from the Cold, we see firsthand the devastating effects of homelessness on families and children, and we know the key to ending homelessness lies in one critical solution: affordable housing.

The Affordable Housing Crisis

For families experiencing homelessness, the journey to stability and security often feels impossible. Affordable housing isn’t just a roof over their heads; it’s the foundation of well-being, dignity, and hope. Yet, in Calgary, affordable housing remains out of reach for many. This crisis is deepening every day, with over 3,600 people experiencing homelessness on any given night and thousands more on the brink of losing their homes.

The families we support at Inn from the Cold come from diverse backgrounds. Many are single mothers, new Canadians, or Indigenous families who are disproportionately affected by housing challenges and systemic barriers. For these families, affordable housing is not just about a safe place to sleep—it’s about a stable base from which they can rebuild their lives, raise their children, and look toward the future.

The Foundation of Ending Homelessness

The conversation around homelessness often centers on emergency services—shelters, food programs, and crisis intervention. While these are essential, they are temporary solutions to a larger, systemic problem. To truly end family homelessness, we must prioritize building more affordable housing and supporting families in maintaining their homes long-term.

At Inn from the Cold, our approach focuses on the entire continuum of care—from emergency shelter to transitional and supportive housing and finally to permanent homes. But we cannot do it alone. Solving this crisis requires collective action from the government, private sector, and community. We need policy changes, increased investment in affordable housing, and the active support of all Calgarians.

How You Can Help

Homelessness is not an individual issue; it is a community one. Everyone can make a difference. As we approach Thanksgiving, a time for gratitude and reflection, we ask you to consider how you can help ensure families have a safe, warm place to call home during the holiday season.

  • Advocate: Use your voice to advocate for more affordable housing in Calgary. Reach out to local representatives and demand that housing be prioritized as a human right.
  • Donate: This Thanksgiving, your support can help provide meals, warmth, and hope to families in need. Every dollar you give will go directly to helping families stay safe and sheltered, ensuring they have a place to gather, heal, and feel supported. Your generosity makes all the difference for those who need it most. Donate here.
  • Volunteer: Give your time and skills to local shelters and housing organizations. Your involvement can help change lives.

Together, we can make affordable housing a reality for all. We can create a city where no child has to grow up without a place to call home, where every family can feel secure and hopeful for the future.

Let’s make this World Homeless Day and upcoming Thanksgiving a reminder that housing is more than just a shelter—it’s a foundation for life, dignity, and change.