Step 1
Ensure you meet the eligibility requirements listed below.
Step 2
Complete a Basic Needs Fund contact request.
Step 3
You will be contacted by an advocate within 5-10 business days to confirm eligibility and asked to provide the required documents for submission.
Step 4
Once your support documents have been received, an advocate will contact you to complete an application for review.
Step 5
If accepted, you'll have an in-depth discussion with an advocate who will approve and disburse funds as needed.
Basic Needs Application Process
What can I request emergency assistance for?
The Basic Needs Fund is available to support Calgarians' with meeting their basic needs. While it is primarily used to ensure that people stay housed and their utilities remain on, we can assess all applications for emergency funding on a case by case basis.
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Rental Arrears / Eviction Notices
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Utility Arrears / Disconnection Notices
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First Months Rent / Damage Deposit
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Unforeseen Medical Expense
Am I eligible for the Basic Needs Fund?
To be eligible to receive one time assistance through the Basic Needs Fund program, you need to meet the following criteria:
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You have contacted Alberta Works Emergency Financial Assistance (1-877-644-9992) and have received a response from them.
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You live in Calgary or surrounding areas.
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You live on a low-income and/or are experiencing a temporary financial crisis.
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You are sustainable, meaning from month to month your income is sufficient to cover expenses under normal circumstances.
What supporting documents are needed?
You will be asked to provide the following to review the application within 5 business days once requested.
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Photo ID: Government issued Photo ID for you and your spouse/partner (if applicable) and any form of identification for your dependents (if applicable).
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Bank Statements: Your last 90 days for you and your spouse/partner (if applicable).
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Rent Report/Lease Agreement: For rent-related assistance copies of any received eviction notices, a signed rent report or lease agreement. (We require consent to contact your landlord to confirm details of your lease agreement)
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Utility Statements: For utility- related assistance, your latest utility statement or final notice.
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Proof of Income: If not deposited directly into your bank account, please provide a pay stub or employment letter.
How can I submit my documents?
Bring your supporting documents to an Advocate at the office location closest to you. We have locations in Bowness, Forest Lawn, and Ranchlands.
Drop-Off
Documents may be faxed to (403) 204-8287 or emailed to info@risecalgary.ca Clear photos of your original documents will also be accepted by email.
Fax or Email
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I don't have an income?
If you have no income, we recommend applying for financial support programs like Employment Insurance (EI), Alberta Works, or other benefits you may qualify for. If you need help with your applications, feel free to contact us or visit during our drop-in hours.
What if I live outside of Calgary?
We currently serve Calgary and the immediate surrounding areas only. If you live outside these areas, please contact 211 for assistance.
How long does the intake process take?
It typically takes 5-10 business days for an advocate to contact you. We appreciate your patience
Will you contact my landlord or utility provider?
Yes, with your consent, we will contact your landlord or utility provider to verify the amount owed.
How are payments made if I'm approved for the fund?
Payments are made by cheque and issued directly to a third party, such as your landlord or utility provider.
What if I don't have a signed lease?
If you don’t have a lease, we will need a rent report instead.
I'm not sure if I'm eligible.
Feel free to call us. We can discuss the Basic Needs Fund program and other available resources.
Privacy Statement
We manage your personal information in accordance with Alberta’s Personal Information Protection Act and other applicable laws. This policy outlines the principles and practices we follow in protecting your personal information. This policy applies to Rise Calgary and to any person providing services on our behalf. A copy of this policy is provided to any client on request. We inform our clients, before or at the time of collecting personal information, of the purposes for which we are collecting the information.