Patch

Submitted on Thursday, 01/09/2020 - 5:35 am

About Patch 

Program Vision: People have what they need to live the lives that they want.

Patch is a neighbourhood Hub located in three Calgary Housing Company (CHC) complexes. It is a place where people with low income can receive free supports and services, meet neighbours, learn about resources and how to navigate community and government systems.

Patch offers walk-in, phone, and on-line services. The staff are also able to meet individuals in the community for situations that require more time or support.

Some of the support and services Patch provides include:
  • financial wellness and filing taxes
    • ensuring people know about available benefits and subsidies, decreasing stress about money, making spending plans
  • basic needs
    • food security
    • housing: developing plans to pay rent/utilities/arrears
    • clothing/furniture (referrals)
    • transportation: bus tickets, developing plans to sustain transportation needs
  • gatherings and groups where people connect, learn and share
    • promoting connections between neighbours and the greater community
  • individual and family wellness
    • teaching skills to help people deal with challenging or stressful situations. Building strategies for mental health and healthy coping.
  • employment and education
    • job search, resume and cover letter support, interview practice, help with applying for schools
  • assisting with non-governmental forms, assistance with understanding notices/letters or how to navigate government/educational/health systems
  •  kids and youth (6+) with parent/guardian permission can use the computers/internet, have access to snacks, participate in our after-school programs, meet new friends, and learn new skills

Who this Program Supports 

Patch supports individuals and families living on low income for Calgary and surrounding area residents.

Our Approach

Patch delivers four main services (see above) to people living in poverty or economic distress in an integrated way. We offer the services in neighbourhood hubs located in Calgary Housing Company complexes.  We partner with other agencies to offer our services.

We know there are many reasons why individuals or families are living in poverty or dealing with challenges. We listen so we can understand each individual and family’s unique experiences and needs and then work with them to meet their needs.

We believe, that like so many people facing challenges or stressful times, individuals and families will benefit from being heard, supported, and reminded of their courage and skills in a safe and reliable program.

We know that when people feel safe, heard, included and connected that they can better support their individual, family and community well-being.

Committed to Excellence 

Poverty is a complex issue so the Patch staff receive comprehensive training to best support the community. Training is important to offer an integrated trauma-informed approach that focuses on economic, social, individual and family mental health and well-being.

All staff are trained in the following: Core intervention/counselling skills, Financial Coaching, Skills for Psychological Recovery (skills for everyday coping and well-being), Inclusive Practice and Diversity, Indigenous Teachings, First Aid and CPR, ASIST (suicide awareness and interventions), Therapeutic Foundations (trauma-informed approaches/Neurosequential Model of Therapeutics introduction to core concepts and practices), and Occupational and Health Safety.

All Hubs have at least one staff trained in Employment and Education, Tax Returns, Connections and Gatherings, and Financial Empowerment strategies.

Patch participates in Community of Practices and Community Committees/groups such as: Basic Needs, Healthy Baby Network, Calgary Community Development Learning Initiative, Aspire – Financial Empowerment (Financial Education & Coaching, Taxation & Benefits).

Patch uses a translation service and has staff who can speak French, Pigin (Creo), Arabic, Swahili, Pular/Foullah, Yoruba, Gusii and Punjabi.

All staff adhere to designated professional and Agency Code of Ethics.

Patch is a CARF accredited program.

How to Access the Program 

Patch is a self-referral program and we are open for in- hub support.  To ensure prompt service, it is best to call ahead to make an appointment. Masking is not required, but it is encouraged and respected. If you are feeling unwell, please stay at home and we will try to provide service over the phone.

Please note, Hubs can close with no notice due to unforeseen situations. Staff will update the Hub’s answering machines when they have closed so please call ahead to find out if the Hub is open.


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Woodridge Patch

  • 249 Woodridge Dr SW, Calgary, AB T2W 4S4
  • 403-281-4905
  • 403-837-5955 (cell)
  • Hours:
    Mon & Thurs: 9 a.m.- 4:30 p.m. | Tue: 9 a.m.-6 p.m. | Wed: 1 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.
    Fri: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. | Closed Sat and Sun

Bannister Patch

  • 18 Bannister Manor S.E., Calgary, AB T2X 2L1
  • 403-201-3152
  • 403-835-3851 (cell)
  • Hours:
    Mon & Thurs: 9 a.m.- 4:30 p.m. | Tue: 9 a.m.-6 p.m. | Wed: 1 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.
    Fri: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. | Closed Sat and Sun

West Dover Patch

  • 3203 31A Ave SE T2B-0H8, Calgary, AB T2B 0H8
  • 403-273-3984
  • 403-589-4942 (cell)
  • Hours:
    Mon & Thurs: 9 a.m.- 4:30 p.m. | Tue: 9 a.m.-6 p.m. | Wed: 1 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.
    Fri: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. | Closed Sat and Sun

Program Partners

 

 

Hull Services Acknowledges these organizations for their generous support of Patch: