Loading, about as long as a coffee at the Lion’s Head.
Loading, about as long as a coffee at the Lion’s Head.
Job loss, illness, rising costs, the end of a relationship. When things tighten, here's where to turn, one call at a time.
You're not the first. You're not alone.
This page is the map for when finances hit a wall. Free food is available at the Community Harvest Food Bank, rent emergencies are covered by the Kootenay Rent Bank, and provincial income assistance exists for people who have exhausted other options.
Using these programs is what they're for. No shame in asking.
First calls
The Castlegar Community Harvest Food Bank provides free food and drop-in lunch services. It's run by community volunteers in the basement of the Anglican Church Hall.
Services are free. No one is turned away. You do not need to prove financial need, the food bank serves anyone who walks in hungry.
Tip
Call first if it's your first visit
EI is your money. You paid into it through every paycheque you ever received. Using it when you need it is the entire point of the program, not charity, not a favour, not something to feel awkward about.
If you’ve lost your job through no fault of your own, EI provides temporary income support while you look for new work or upgrade skills. Apply as soon as you stop working, don’t wait to receive your Record of Employment.
EI also has specialized benefits: sickness benefits (if you can't work due to illness), caregiving benefits (for a gravely ill family member), and maternity/parental benefits (see New Parents in Castlegar).
If you've exhausted other income sources (EI, WorkSafe BC, CPP, student aid), BC Employment & Assistance may provide monthly support. The program also offers disability assistance for people with ongoing disabilities.
Run by the Castlegar & District Community Services Society, the Kootenay Rent Bank offers interest-free repayable loans for back-rent or utility arrears, to prevent eviction or disconnection.
Also see the Housing & Tenant Support page for more.
If you're behind on City utility bills, contact Financial Services to arrange a payment plan rather than letting arrears accumulate.
Many benefits (GST Credit, CCB, BC Rent Bank, Canada Workers Benefit, SAFER for seniors) are triggered by your most recent tax filing. If you haven't filed recently, you're leaving money on the table.
Good to know
Connecting the dots
Community Harvest Food Bank
614 Christina Place. Mon/Wed/Fri 9 a.m., 12:30 p.m.
Kootenay Rent Bank
Interest-free loans to prevent eviction.
Apply for EI
Employment Insurance, apply immediately after job loss.
BC Employment & Assistance
My Self Serve, apply online or call 1-866-866-0800.
Benefits Wayfinder BC
Free tool to find benefits you may qualify for.
Housing & Tenant Support
If rent is the issue.
Still need help?
Faster than calling for non-urgent issues. We respond within one business day.
Verified against Castlegar & District Community Services Society, Community Harvest Food Bank, Province of BC (Employment Standards, BCEA), Service Canada (EI), Canada Revenue Agency, and FortisBC. Programs and eligibility may change; confirm with each provider.