About the team
As part of the Crises Response Program, the City of New Westminster has established the Homelessness Services Team (HST).
The goal of HST is to proactively and reactively offer support to priority populations, including to those who are experiencing homelessness, mental health and substance use. They can also connect people through referrals to provincial teams, as well as to faith-based and not-for-profit partners in the community.
HST champions the needs of Indigenous people with living experience, and the team works to identify how the City could provide a culturally safe and trauma-informed response.
Drop-in services
The Homelessness Services Team offers drop-in sessions at Queensborough Community Centre.
The drop-in sessions take place every Thursday from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm, in the Sampson Room (also referred to as Meeting Room 2).
Connect to a variety of resources; including showers, refreshments, and more! Towels and soap will be provided for those who would like to use the showers.
For more information regarding the drop-in program, please email outreach@newwestcity.ca.
The Talking Circle
The Talking Circle is led by the Homelessness Services Outreach Team, and is funded by Health Canada's Emergency Treatment Fund. It is held at 740 Carnarvon Street, at the side of the building (in the Honeymoon Suite).
Enjoy a casual gathering and meet with an Indigenous Elder. The Talking Circle welcomes anyone who self-identifies as Indigenous. Food and refreshments are provided. If you have questions about The Talking Circle, please connect with us by email at outreach@newwestcity.ca.
In 2026, the Talking Circle will take place on the following Thursdays between 1:00 pm and 3:00 pm:
- March 5
- April 2
- May 7
- June 4
- July 2
- August 6
- September 3
- October 1
- November 5
- December 3
Connect with us
To connect with the HST, please call 604-527-4502 Monday to Friday, 8:30 am to 4:30 pm, excluding holidays. You can also email outreach@newwestcity.ca
Please reach out if/when someone:
- You see may need help connecting to resources in the community, including food or shelter
- Needs assistance connecting to a faith-based, not-for-profit or provincial partner in the community
- Needs assistance obtaining identification, like a BCID.
What is the difference between Homelessness Services Team and the Community Liaison Officer Team?
The Homelessness Services Team takes a person-centered approach and focuses on providing support and connections to those who have living experience of the three crises: homelessness, mental health and substance use.
The Community Liaison Officer Team assist with the impacts from the three crises, such as helping clear blocked doorways or sidewalks, open substance use and drug paraphernalia, behavioral concerns, tents in public places. They also provide education on local bylaws and regulations, and encourage voluntary compliance.
Learn more about the Crises Response Program by clicking on the box below.