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Advocacy & Crisis Management

Advocacy and Crisis Management

Reaching out to those in crisis.

At JFS, we understand that finding safe, stable housing is one of the most pressing challenges faced by individuals and families living in or at risk of poverty. The rising cost of living, housing shortages, and unexpected life circumstances often leave people feeling overwhelmed, fearful, and uncertain about their future. These struggles impact not only physical well-being but also emotional and mental health, as the stress of housing insecurity takes its toll on daily life.

Our mission is to empower community members to live with dignity and respect. For those facing housing insecurity, we provide personalized support, advocacy, and access to vital resources to help navigate these challenges.

Homelessness Prevention Services

We offer a variety of services and support if you are at risk of losing your housing or are housing insecure. Please note JFS is not a housing provider. We cannot provide support for a market rent search and find housing for people before they arrive in Vancouver.

To qualify for JFS services, you must meet the criteria listed below:

  • My household's annual income is less than $40,000
  • I am homeless, inadequately housed, or at a high risk of losing housing
  • I am a Lower Mainland resident
Following an intake and assessment of your needs, we can:
  • provide information and referral to other community resources
  • help you apply for subsidized housing
  • work with you to avoid eviction and maintain housing
  • provide you with a self-guided toolkit for your housing search
  • connect you with a care manager if you need assistance with your housing search or advocate with the landlord
  • connect you with a JFS Housing support group and workshops
  • help you apply for rent subsidies and emergency financial aid
 

Jewish Housing Registry

The Jewish Housing Registry (JHR) is an online database where you can apply for affordable housing offered by Tikva Housing Society, Vancouver Jewish Building Society, Yaffa Housing Society, Haro Park Centre Society, and Maple Crest Apartments.

Do I qualify for affordable housing and what type of unit would I get?
To see if you are eligible, please fill out the Jewish Housing Registry Eligibility Assessment. Your eligibility for affordable housing is determined by various criteria, including your gross income, assets, family composition, and any mobility restrictions you may have. The type of unit you may qualify for depends on these factors and the availability of suitable units.

How long will it take to get placed in a unit?
Due to the high demand for affordable housing, wait times can vary significantly. The number of applicants exceeds the number of available units, so placement depends on your housing needs and when a vacancy occurs.

How do I know if my file is still active?
To keep your file active and up to date, you must contact us once a year. 

Crisis Management: Information, Advocacy & Referral

We provide a range of services to clients in need to address issues such as lack of income, disability, abuse, addiction etc. Our services are client focused with the goal of assisting people as they navigate through the system and providing support where needed.

Case management includes:

  • Intake
  • Assessment
  • Action plan with short and long-term goals
  • Supportive Counselling
  • Referrals
  • Education
  • Access to government benefits

Case managers provide assistance and support to clients through one-to-one sessions and group activities.

To apply, please contact the JFS Care Line or fill the online client intake form.

Other Services

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