Outreach Frequently Asked Questions

General Program Questions

No. Most of our outreach programs are open to the public and do not require a referral. In order to access some services you will be asked to complete an intake form. You may also be asked to complete a consent form to have your information inputted into HIFIS (Homeless Individuals and Families Information System) for data and services tracking.

You can drop in during posted hours or connect with a team member in the community.

Yes. All supports offered through YMCA ReConnect and its outreach programs are completely free.

Our services support individuals who are unhoused, at risk of homelessness, or navigating related challenges like mental health struggles, substance use, or low income. If you’re unsure whether a program is right for you or someone you know, we’re happy to help point you in the right direction.

This depends on the program, but generally includes:

  • Basic needs (clothing, food, hygiene products)
  • Support getting ID and income assistance
  • Harm reduction supplies
  • Housing help and tenancy support
  • Mental health and addictions referrals
  • Crisis response and de-escalation
Basic Needs and Clothing

Yes. Our outreach team regularly distributes seasonal clothing, footwear, and outerwear to individuals in need. Supplies are limited and based on donations, but we do our best to meet urgent needs.

Yes! We accept new or gently used items like coats, boots, backpacks, and unopened hygiene supplies. Please contact us to coordinate a drop-off or purchase items directly from our Amazon Wishlist! Amazon.ca

Housing & Supportive Services

We use a Housing First model, meaning individuals are placed into housing without preconditions like sobriety or income. We do not currently own housing, but instead support people through scattered site housing. This means that people are placed in subsidized units and receive ongoing, personalized support to help maintain housing long-term.

While we do not directly pay rent or deposits, we can help connect individuals to funding options and advocate through other community programs and emergency housing supports. We also assist with the paperwork and planning needed to access these resources.

Coordinated Access is a system used across the country—including in Moncton—to prioritize people with the greatest needs for housing. Once someone is assessed, their name is added to a shared housing list used by local housing providers. YMCA outreach staff can support individuals through this process.

Homelessness & Community Awareness

Homelessness in Moncton includes individuals sleeping rough (outside or in tents), staying in emergency shelters, or couch surfing. Many people also experience “hidden homelessness” in unstable or unsafe living conditions.

Too often, members of our community experiencing homelessness pass away far too soon, sometimes from preventable causes like overdose, untreated health issues, or exposure. Every life matters, and we believe it is important to both remember those we have lost and learn from their stories to prevent future loss.

If you know of someone who has passed away while experiencing homelessness, we invite you to share through our Homeless Mortality Survey. Your contribution will help us honour their memory, improve services, and address the systemic gaps that put lives at risk. The survey includes a short summary of its purpose, definitions, and privacy safeguards so you know exactly how the information will be used.

Our team regularly delivers presentations, trainings, and public education events. If your school, workplace, or group is interested in learning more about homelessness, harm reduction, or outreach services, please contact us.

Responding to Homelessness in the Community

If someone appears to be in distress, unsafe, or in need of urgent help, please call 911. For non-emergency concerns or to request outreach support, you can contact the City of Moncton Dispatch Line at 506‑856‑3333—calls may be redirected to our outreach or YRAD teams when appropriate.

It’s important to remember that housing is a human right. Not all people experiencing homelessness want or are ready to engage with services at any given moment. Sometimes, the most respectful action you can take is to simply offer kindness—or allow them space without judgment.

You can contact us or the dispatch line if you have concerns or if you think someone might benefit from support. However, tents and encampments are often the only option for individuals without housing. Unless there is an immediate safety risk, the best approach is often to leave the site undisturbed. Outreach workers check in regularly with encampments and can offer supplies, support, and housing connections when people are ready.

About the YMCA Outreach Van

Seeing our outreach van doesn’t necessarily mean there is a crisis or encampment nearby. We often park in discreet, neutral areas near (but not directly beside) outreach sites to protect privacy and maintain respectful distance.

Also keep in mind that the van might be used by other YMCA programs from time to time, not just Outreach Services.

Our outreach van is a mobile base for our team. It allows us to distribute supplies, meet privately with participants, transport individuals to appointments or services, and carry outreach materials. It’s also a place for staff to check in, warm up or cool down depending on the weather, and store harm reduction and wellness items. It plays a key role in helping us stay connected and responsive across the community.

How You Can Help

Absolutely. Financial contributions allow us to directly support individuals with housing start-up kits, transportation, and crisis essentials. Donations can be made online through the YMCA of Greater Moncton’s donation page—just specify “Community Outreach” in the notes.

Yes! Our wishlist includes frequently needed items like hygiene products, socks, harm reduction supplies, and snacks. You can purchase directly from the list and have items shipped to us. Amazon.ca

Some programs occasionally offer opportunities for volunteers, especially during donation drives or seasonal outreach events. While day-to-day outreach is handled by trained staff, we welcome community support in other meaningful ways. Reach out to learn more about current opportunities.

If someone is in immediate danger or needs urgent medical help, call 911. For non-emergency concerns related to homelessness, mental health, or public space issues, you can call the City of Moncton Dispatch Line at 506‑856‑3333. Calls may be redirected to the YRAD team when appropriate.