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CISC connects newcomers and immigrants in the Cochrane area with vital community supports, volunteer opportunities, and multicultural events.

CISC newcomer guides and community welcome materials

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01

Community Services

Town of Cochrane A wide range of municipal services including property taxes, utilities, business licenses, transit passes, and many more.

Family & Community Support Services (FCSS) Meet with a resource worker to access supports for you and your family, including food bank hampers, winterwear, help with tax forms, and a wide range of other social programs.

Family Resource Network (FRN) Programs and supports for families with children from birth to age 18.

Cochrane Public Library Programs and supports for families with children from birth to age 18. Free Wi-Fi and use of computers.

Big Hill Haven Supports families living in abusive situations through crisis intervention, collaborative family violence response, advocacy, supportive counselling, safety planning, court support, assistance with basic needs, and more. Its office is located in the FCSS building.

Bow Valley College: Mentorship for Rural Immigrants This no-cost, part-time program supports rural immigrants in building communication and soft skills while learning more about Canadian workplace culture.

03

Education and Language

South Central Adult Learning Society (SCALS) Offers English as an Additional Language classes and basic technology skills in Cochrane.

04

Employment

Prospect Human Services prospectnow.ca Provides the tools necessary for a job search including career planning, resume/cover letter creation and critiquing, job interview preparation and practice, assisted job searches, and labour market information.

Alberta Employments Standards Rules, regulations and compliance measures for employers and employees in Alberta workplaces.

05

Entrepreneurship

Community Futures West Business loans, tools, mentoring, guidance, and support for rural small business owners and entrepreneurs in Alberta.

SMARTstart Entrepreneur Program An entrepreneurial training and development program that supports new entrepreneurs through mentorship, online training, and in-person workshop with local experts. The eight-month, part-time program provides real-world business skills, access to customized advice and the creation of a support network. The program’s goal is to increase the percentage of new businesses that survive their crucial early years.

Innovate Cochrane A community-driven non-profit dedicated to empowering entrepreneurs and business leaders in Cochrane.

06

Everyday Basics

Cochrane Food Bank Reach out to Family and Community Support Services (FCSS) for food hamper requests.

Helping Hands – Free Food Sheds This community food exchange program promotes food security while tackling food waste.  The program is structured as a “take what you need and leave what you can” free food initiative.

Home Treasures A not-for-profit thrift store offering gently-used home goods and furnishings.

Cochrane Local Transit (COLT) Cochrane operates a local on request, "stop-to-stop", ride-sharing transit service, in addition to its primary fixed-route service.

  • On request bus trips can be booked using the website, mobile app or by calling (403) 851-5995. Multiple trips can be booked up to a week in advance.

On-It Regional Transit This transit partnership offers service every weekday from Cochrane to Downtown Calgary & Brentwood LRT.

Rocky View Paratransit & Regional Bus The Rocky View regional bus service, operated by the Rocky View Regional Handi-Bus Society, is a wheelchair-accessible, shared-ride service for residents of Rocky View County who are unable to use regular transit. It provides transportation for medical appointments and daily living activities like grocery shopping. You must register for the service and book trips in advance, preferably 72 hours ahead of time.

Cochrane Society for Housing Options CSHO provides rental housing where tenants pay a discounted percentage of what is considered the average market rent for the area, set by Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation. CSHO rental rates are set at a minimum of 10% below market value.

Get a Canadian bank account

Cochrane Registries A registry agent to obtain a driver’s licence, register a vehicle, or book a road test.

Service Canada Service Canada provides Canadians with a single point of access to a wide range of government services and benefits, including: employment insurance, social insurance number, disability benefits, Canada pension plan, and more.

Living in Canada video series Visit Immigrant Services Calgary’s YouTube channel for videos on preparing for winter, building a resume or cover letter, tips on finances, and more.

07

Health and Wellness

Community Health CentreUrgent Care Centre, lab appointments, x-ray services, Cochrane Addictions and Mental Health.

Distress Centre Crisis Line Contact Distress Centre for 24-hour crisis support, counselling and referrals. Free 24-hour support by phone, text and chat, plus professional counselling, and referrals.

Cochrane Cares A resource hub for a variety of local programs and services to prevent and treat mental health challenges in Cochrane.

Health Link: Dial 811 A phone line for health advice or information This is NOT an emergency line. Dial 911 for emergencies: fire, police, ambulance.

Emergency Services: Dial 911 for fire, police, and ambulance.

Cochrane Prenatal Health Group An Alberta Health Services program offering health education and connection opportunities for pregnant people and those parenting 0-6 month old children.

Cochrane Pregnancy Care Centre Provides compassionate care to women and families facing an unexpected pregnancy or related issues.

Calgary Communities Against Sexual Abuse(CCASA) A sexual abuse/assault service offering a number of programs for those who have experienced sexual violence, as well as their friends, family, and other supporters.

Southern Alberta Regional Victim Serving Society A not-for-profit organization providing 24-hour crisis response, support, and referral services to victims of crime and tragedy.

Cultivate Cochrane Empowers people to grow their own food through demonstration and education.

Find a Doctor

Find a Dentist

Find a Pharmacy

Apply for Alberta Health Care Card

08

Immigrant Services

Cochrane Immigrant Services Committee Serves newcomer-immigrants in Cochrane and area to support settlement and integration. Meet with our program coordinator to discuss needs and challenges, and receive individualized supports and referrals. Our Community Hub offers a place for programs and connection to create a sense of belonging.

Rocky View Immigrant Services Provides newcomers/immigrants and refugees with services to support settlement and integration in Cochrane and area. All services are free.

09

Recreation

SLS Centre A recreational facility for physical and social wellness, including pools, ice rinks, fitness centre, running track, and more.

Sport4Life Cochrane A non-profit organization connecting schools, sports, and the community through multi-sport opportunities.

11

Seniors

Seniors on the Bow A vibrant nonprofit society with resources that enhance the quality of life for all those over age 50 in the Cochrane area. Seniors on the Box offers a wide variety of fitness programs as well as card games, trips, and other social activities. They also provide a monthly Hot Lunch program for a minimal cost.

Bethany Cochrane Provides services for seniors with complex health needs who are unable to remain at home or in a supportive living centre.

Rocky View Foundation Provides affordable housing options to independent seniors.

13

Volunteer

Volunteer Connector Find unique volunteer opportunities in the Cochrane area.