If you are a tenant in Alberta facing sudden eviction, finding safe and immediate shelter is a top priority. Alberta has several emergency housing programs and resources that provide urgent support to those in need. This article explains your rights, the shelter options available, and where to find additional help during this difficult time.

Immediate Steps After Eviction in Alberta

Eviction can be overwhelming, but it’s important to act swiftly once you receive a demand to leave your home. If you are at risk of homelessness, consider these steps:

• Contact 211 Alberta: Dial 2-1-1 or visit 211 Alberta to connect with local emergency shelters and housing programs.
• Reach out to local shelters and crisis centres: Most cities and towns in Alberta have services for those who need urgent accommodation, including families and individuals.
• Request support from Alberta Supports: Alberta Supports can help with emergency financial assistance or referrals to shelter. Call 1-877-644-9992 or visit Alberta's Emergency Financial Assistance.

If your eviction was sudden, especially without proper notice or in bad weather, you may have certain legal protections under the Residential Tenancies Act (Alberta)¹. For full details on your rights and the eviction process, refer to the Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Alberta page.

Types of Emergency Shelter Available

Alberta offers various emergency shelter options, depending on your location and circumstances. Most shelters provide basic necessities, such as beds, meals, and access to support workers:

• General Emergency Shelters: Open to all adults, often on a first-come, first-served basis
• Family and Women’s Shelters: Designed for women and children escaping unsafe housing, including family violence
• Youth Shelters: For young people under 25 facing homelessness
• Transitional Housing: Programs that bridge the gap between emergency shelter and permanent housing

Many of these services also provide case management, help with finding a new home, and referrals to health or employment supports. You can see a list of Alberta shelters by region on the official government website.

How to Find and Access Shelter Quickly

If you are not sure where to go, use the 211 Alberta line or website for centralized shelter information. Major cities like Calgary and Edmonton have year-round shelter networks; smaller communities may use regional programs or churches. Proof of Alberta residency can help, but most shelters do not refuse urgent cases.

Important Forms and What to Do If You Need More Time

Sometimes, you may be able to delay your eviction while seeking shelter through the courts or your local tenancy tribunal. In Alberta, you can apply for a Stay of Enforcement using the "Application for Stay of Enforcement" form.

• Form Name: Application for Stay of Enforcement
• When to use: If you need more time before leaving your home after receiving a court-ordered eviction or order of possession.
• How to use: Submit it to the Provincial Court in your area, along with your reasons (e.g., needing time to secure a shelter bed). Access official Alberta court forms here.

If you disagree with the eviction or believe your landlord has not followed the correct process, you may apply to the Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) for a review.

Your Rights as a Tenant Facing Eviction

The Residential Tenancies Act (Alberta) protects tenants from informal evictions and outlines the steps landlords must follow. In most non-emergency cases, written notice is required. For an overview of tenant and landlord rules, see Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them.

Remember, being evicted does not affect your right to emergency shelter or government support. Many tenants return to renting after resolving their housing crisis. When you’re ready, you can Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme to access new and affordable rental listings.

Ways to Find Longer-Term Housing

While staying in a shelter, begin planning for more permanent accommodation. Social housing agencies, housing placement workers, and online rental platforms can help. Moving quickly ensures more choice and stability.

• Ask shelter staff for transitional housing applications
• Explore online listings and rental resources
• Reach out to affordable housing programs in your community

For tips on smoothing your next move and understanding health and safety in rentals, see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

FAQ: Emergency Shelter and Eviction in Alberta

1. Can I stay in my home after getting an eviction notice in Alberta?
   In most cases, you must leave by the date specified, unless you have grounds to appeal or apply for a stay. Contact RTDRS or local court for urgent help.
2. What should I bring to an emergency shelter?
   Bring identification and any important documents (lease, notices, health card) if possible. Most shelters supply basic necessities, but bringing necessities for children or pets is helpful.
3. Are there shelters in rural Alberta?
   Many smaller communities have regional shelters or may offer temporary accommodation via churches or local programs. Call 211 Alberta for location-specific advice.
4. Do emergency shelters help find new housing?
   Yes, most shelters work with local housing and social agencies to help you move from temporary accommodation to longer-term solutions.
5. How do I apply for urgent financial help after eviction?
   Use Alberta Supports or call 1-877-644-9992 to apply for Emergency Financial Assistance if you cannot afford a hotel or basic needs.

Conclusion: What to Remember

• Emergency shelter is available in Alberta and accessible by calling 211 Alberta or local agencies
• Know your rights under the Residential Tenancies Act and act promptly when evicted
• Begin planning your next move early, using available community supports and rental resources

A quick, informed response increases your chances of safely transitioning from eviction to stable housing.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) – for tenancy disputes and urgent applications
• Alberta Shelter Locator – search for shelters in your area
• 211 Alberta – crisis line and referral to emergency resources
• Alberta Emergency Financial Assistance – emergency money for unexpected events
• Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Alberta – full overview of Alberta tenancy rules and contacts

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1. Residential Tenancies Act (Alberta) – Current legislation governing tenancies, evictions, and tenant/landlord rights.
2. Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) – Alberta's official tenancy tribunal.
3. Alberta Government: Emergency Shelters – Official list and contact points for shelters by region.

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