Basic Needs Guide

How to use this guide

The Basic Needs Guide is prepared in four sections: Immediate Needs; Basic Needs; What's Next?; Get Involved!

Each section contains a listing of services and their contact information. These listings are organized by topic, and the services are listed alphabetically. For large organizations, a main information access site or number is provided.

While many of the services listed are physically located in Kitchener or Waterloo, most provide their services to Waterloo Region. It’s always a good idea to call ahead to check the hours of operation, confirm the address, nearest cross streets, and to ask about the nearby bus stops if needed. You can also find out if you need an appointment and if you should bring anything with you, such as your health card or photo identification. Most of the services are free; however, some are on a sliding scale, meaning that the fee is based on your ability to pay.

Through our enquiry service we always offer our callers options, leaving the choice to the individual. We encourage you to do the same with the information contained in this guide. Consider all of your options and find the resources that are the best fit for you.

Call our office at 519-579-3800 for the latest contact information on these, or any other community and government services that may help you. Our enquiry counsellors are available to refer you to additional programs which were not included in this guide.

Also, please note that a group’s inclusion in the Basic Needs Guide doesn’t imply its endorsement by SPCKW/CICWR, nor does a group’s omission reflect upon the quality of their services or programs. Inclusion in this guide is based on the criteria presented on the next page.

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