Strathcona County offers a number of subsidies to residents with low incomes. Residents can access certain County operated programs and services at a reduced cost or for free.

Support services 

We offer a wide range of programs to help you get the services and support you need.

• Help with programs and services
  Our free Solutions Navigation service helps you build skills and access community services and resources. Call in five days a week, no appointment needed.
   
• Counselling services
  "Pay what you can afford" call-in counselling sessions. No appointment needed.
   
• Services for youth
  Supports and resources for youth, including free programs through Youth Connect.
   
• Home support services
  If you have health-related difficulties, you can get help with light housekeeping. Cost is on a sliding fee scale.
   
• Lawn and snow removal help
  Volunteer LawnBusters and SnowBusters help take care of your yard and sidewalk when you can’t. You must be physically unable to do these things yourself to qualify for the program.

Free or reduced-price programs

Find out about free programs and learn how to access services at a lower price.

• Free activities
  See a calendar of upcoming free events in the County.
   
• Low-cost recreation
  The Recreation Access Program (Everybody gets to play) provides a free Active Pass and reduced-fee programs for residents with limited incomes.


• Low-cost bus passes
  The Everybody Rides Program lowers the cost of bus passes for residents with limited incomes.
   
• Affordable groceries
  The WECAN Food Basket Society offers fresh and safe food at an affordable price.
  
  You must register with the service and pay an annual membership of $5. Each food basket is $35.
  
  Email FamilyResourceNetwork@strathcona.ca to discuss pickup and payment options.

Financial programs

Get help with savings and taxes through these programs.

• Help with savings
  The Community Adult Learning & Literacy Society runs a program called Empower U to help you manage your money. You may qualify for matched savings.
   
• Free tax preparation
  Volunteer Strathcona provides free tax preparation for low-income County residents. Clients work with Volunteer Strathcona volunteers to complete their simple tax returns during a walk-in, in-person appointment.
   
• Seniors’ property tax programs
  Learn about programs that help low-income seniors with their property taxes.

Printable guide to affordable services

Everybody Can - Your guide to affordable services (4.9 MB) .

For more information about county and community resources or to speak with a navigator about supports for your next steps call Solutions Navigation at 780-464-4044 or visit us at Family and Community Services