Here to Help
We might not have all the answers, but we have all the resources you'll need to live a happy, healthy life in Banff.
Banff Access Program
The Banff Access Program card gets you discounts on local programs and services. Eligible Banff residents can get 50% off community class registration, kids camps, public skating and skate rentals. There are also discounts available for Roam bus passes. Applications are available online or at the Community Support Services desk at Town Hall.
Community Resources
Whether you're a long-time resident or a newcomer, you'll find the Essential Local's Guide an invaluable resource to life in Banff. Inside you'll find a listing of classes, events, programs and services - everything you need to know about living in Banff.
The Community Resource Directory is the place to go to find a listing of local organizations and services. It's frequently updated with contact information for local programs and services available to residents in Banff and Canmore. We list everything from Alberta Health Services programs to support groups to sports leagues. Search by keyword, category or alphabetically.
Affordability and Assistance
There are many discounts, grants and funding assistance programs available to the residents of Banff. Check the Affordability and Assistance page and find out how you can receive financial assistance for community classes, children's programs, recreation, transportation, and more.
BanffLIFE (Youth 18 to 30)
BanffLIFE is a resource for young adults 18 to 30 who live in Banff. This program provides low-cost guided activities in the mountains, as well as yoga classes and free pasta nights. If you're new to Banff, this is a great place to start to connect with the community and make friends.
Children and Youth
From toddlers to Grade 12, we have playgroups, summer camps, after school programs and more geared to Banff's Children and Youth. Most programs require registration, but some are drop-in and open to the whole family. Learn more and how to register your child for an upcoming program.
Families
Banff is a family-friendly town for residents and visitors. With a well-rounded assortment or events, programs, initiatives, resources and support, families in Banff are well-cared for.
Seniors Services (55+)
We offer an array of support for our seniors in Banff. If you're 55+, you have access to seniors housing, income tax preparation, volunteer drivers and more. Seniors Services also has a dedicated staff member to help seniors and meet their needs.
Mental Health Resources
There are a number of Mental Health Resources available in Banff. These are operated by Alberta Health Services.
Community Classes
At the start of every fall and spring, a new Essential Local's Guide to Banff is released listing classes you can take in locally. Class listings are posted online, but you can also pick up a copy at Banff Town Hall.
Community Connections
If you are new to the Bow Valley (Banff, Canmore, Lake Louise or Kananaskis), Community Connections in the Bow Valley is here to help. Get matched with a Volunteer Connector or Connector Family who will help you get connected.
Housing
This list of tools and resources to help you buy a home or find a place to rent will be continuously updated as new Housing information becomes available.
Settlement Services
Settlement Services provides permanent residents of Canada, live-in caregivers and refugees with the support they need to settle in the Bow Valley (Banff, Canmore, Lake Louise and Kananaskis), from no cost language options to family reunification and schooling for their children. Our settlement team connects all permanent residents, regardless of time spent in Canada, with a broad range of services and resources. All our services are free and confidential.
Temporary Foreign Workers
Support services for Temporary Foreign Workers are provided free of charge. Be part of one-on-one or group workshops, learn about your employment rights and responsibilities or get document assistance. Our support services help to serve as a bridge between employment, community and Canadian society.
Non-Profit Support
Get help for your non-profit or community group with our online resources listing everything from grant writing tips to a locals skills bank.
Volunteer
Volunteers are the backbone of any community, and local groups and organizations are always looking for help. Volunteering is a great way to give back, get involved, and make new friends.
Call 211 for Information and Support
If you need to speak with someone on the phone after hours (at 3 a.m. or 9 p.m.) because you don't know what to do or where to go, call 211 Alberta – a free 24/7 help and information line to give you options and advice. This service is available in over 200 languages. You can call this line any time of day, but it's here for you when you may most need it overnight and on weekends. This number is managed by a call centre in Calgary, but they have access to our local resource information.
