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Community Resources

There are many resources available within the Cowichan Region to assist those who require help. This is a basic list of key resources available. Please note we try to update this page as frequently as possible. Services below may vary based on funding and program guidelines - please inquire within to ensure services are available.

For a more thorough guide to resources and services for people living on the street or those facing housing loss, check out the Duncan Street Survival Guide here.

Shelters and Transition Houses

Designed to be a gateway to stable housing and integrated, client focused support services to adult (19+) men and women who are coping with a variety of challenges.

Somenos House provides free and confidential emergency short-term shelter and support for women (with or without children) needing safety from violence and abuse.

Cedar Branches Women's Shelter

A low-barrier, wet, 19+ shelter that operates 24/7 with a 20-24 person capacity. It offers laundry services, shower facilities, meals, basic supports, and referrals to other services as needed.

Warmland Shelter

Somenos House

Food Resources

For a more extensive list of food resources in the Cowichan Region, click here.

Duncan Food Bank
(Cowichan Valley Basket Society)

Offering meals and snacks daily from their kitchen program as well as food hampers supplying a week's worth of food for individuals and families.

reFresh Cowichan with Cowichan Green Community

A dignified and inclusive grocery store offering affordable fresh produce, pantry staples, organic dairy products, as well as a line of homemade frozen meals, soups and desserts.

The Salvation Army offers emergency food programs, hampers, and street packs with non-perishable food items.

Salvation Army

The monthly Good Food Box program is dedicated to feeding the community fresh fruits and vegetables at an affordable price.

Nourish Cowichan's
Starfish Backpack Program

Starfish provides packs of two breakfasts, two lunches, two dinners, and snacks to hungry students each weekend of the school year.

Hiiye'yu Lelum's Breakfast Program

This service is for Indigenous community members in need. Coffee & Muffins Monday-Friday 6am-9am. Some other services may be available.

Good Food Box

BC Housing Programs

The Rental Assistance Program provides low-income families with monthly assistance to help meet monthly rent payments.

To see if you may be eligible visit their website below.

Rental Assistance Program (RAP)

The Shelter Aid for Elder Renters offers low income seniors a rent subsidy for those 60yr+

To see if you may be eligible visit their website below.

Shelter Aid for Elderly Renters (SAFER)

BC Housing offers subsidized and supportive housing options for low income individuals and families.

For more information and to apply, visit the website below.

BC Housing Registry

Mental Health Resources

Cowichan Family Life

Affordable counselling and workshops for individuals and families.

#102 - 481 Trans Canada Hwy.

250-748-8281

Counselling, programs, and advocacy for women (including trans individuals) and children.

246 Evans St. Duncan

250-748-7000

Cowichan Women Against Violence Society

Free counselling services and supports for children 13-18yrs and their families.

294 Coronation Avenue, Duncan

250-748-0232

Cowichan Valley Youth Services

Resources for Seniors

Seniors Advocate of BC

Information and referrals for seniors and their care givers including housing, health care, income, and other resources.

Seniors Services Society of BC provides older adults 60+ with information and guidance on housing and support program options to enhance their lives and help them live comfortably and safely in their homes.

Seniors Services Society of BC

Information, advocacy & support for BC seniors and care givers who are dealing with issues effecting their well-being.

Seniors First BC

Resources for Peoples with Disabilities

Cowichan Independent Living provides services to anyone living with disabilities in our community. Services include: information & referrals, peer support, application form support, and further resources.

Cowichan Independent Living

Providing post-rehabilitation and community-based peer support for connection and to improve one's health and wellness through empowerment and advocacy.

Cowichan Brain Injury Society

Supporting individuals, with all disabilities, to live with dignity, independence, and as equal and full participants in the community. Offers direct services, community partnerships, advocacy, research, and publications.

Disability Alliance BC

For another extensive resource directory, visit pathwaysBC.ca

Happipad Room Share

Happipad is about matching two compatible people – a host and a renter – into a mutually beneficial living arrangement. The host gains a happy face around the house, a helping hand, and some extra cash. The renter is given affordable, comfortable housing with a like-minded roommate.

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