Supporting Vulnerable Residents
Community safety remains a top priority for the City of Maple Ridge. We are addressing both immediate concerns and long-term challenges through a compassionate, coordinated response that combines enforcement, outreach, and access to essential support services.
Homelessness is a complex issue that affects many people in our community. While homelessness services are primarily the responsibility of the provincial government, the City of Maple Ridge works closely with BC Housing and local organizations to connect individuals and families who are unhoused—or at risk of homelessness—with vital resources such as shelter and support programs.
These partnerships help ensure that vulnerable residents have access to the care and stability they need during difficult times.
City Programs that Promote Safety and Well-Being
The coordinates several initiatives to enhance public safety and community wellbeing:
Community Resource HUB: A low-barrier, drop-in centre that connects people experiencing homelessness with housing, health, and addiction supports. Operated in partnership with Alouette Addictions Services, Fraser Health, Kwantlen First Nation, the Ministry of Social Development and Poverty Reduction, and Ridge Church, it is recognized as a regional model for integrated care. Open weekdays from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., the HUB is supported by 24/7 on-site security, enhanced RCMP and Community Safety Officer patrols, and CPTED lighting and design improvements to ensure a safe, welcoming environment for all.
Community Safety Officers (CSOs): Respond daily to social disorder, encampments, and safety concerns—resolving most files within 48 hours.
Be Downtown Initiative: Provides a visible and welcoming safety presence in the city centre in partnership with RCMP and local businesses.
FAST (Functional Assertive Situation Table): A multi-agency program that connects high-risk individuals to services before crises occur.
LOCTED Program: Helps businesses improve safety through security assessments and shared-cost upgrades.
Winter Shelter Program: Provides overnight shelter from November to April for vulnerable populations in partnership with the Salvation Army and Ridge Church.
Social Planning Pilot: A new initiative addressing the full scope of community social needs—from housing to youth and seniors.
RCMP Community Safety Programs
The Ridge Meadows RCMP leads several complementary programs, including:
Crime Reduction Unit (CRU): Provides visible downtown foot and bike patrols, addressing community concerns and supporting local businesses.
Mental Health Unit (MHU): Works with Fraser Health and local services to connect individuals in crisis to appropriate care.
FYRST Program: Focused on early intervention for youth and families at risk of criminal involvement, building resilience and community connection.
Accessing Support Services
If you or someone you know needs support, help is available:
BC211: Call or text 2-1-1 or visit bc211.ca for connections to local housing, shelter, and mental health resources.
BC Housing: Visit bchousing.org or call 604-830-1528 / 778-862-0692 for shelter and housing options.
IHART (Integrated Homelessness Action Response Team): Offers nursing, social work, and mental health care. Visit fraserhealth.ca.
Mobile Integrated Crisis Response (Car 67): Health care professionals and RCMP officers respond to mental health crises on-site.
TRAC (Tenant Resource & Advisory Centre): Visit tenants.bc.ca for advocacy and tenant support.