Helping Working Families in Lethbridge Find Stability, Dignity, and Independence.

There are families in our community living month to month — SAIL exists to help them find stability.

Apply For Support Contact Us
The Need

The Lethbridge Affordability Crisis

The following data comes from the City of Lethbridge’s 2024 Housing Needs Assessment, using data from Statistics Canada (2021).

Housing Needs Assessment PDF
Abstract green textured pattern with wavy, zigzag lines. The overlapping shades of green create a dynamic, rippling effect, evoking movement.

1,350 households spend over 50% of their income on housing

Many families in our community are doing everything right and still struggling to keep a roof over their heads. Rising housing costs mean many are living month to month, one unexpected change away from losing their home.

No one should have to choose between making rent or buying groceries.

Abstract green textured pattern with wavy, zigzag lines. The overlapping shades of green create a dynamic, rippling effect, evoking movement.
1,350
1,350 households spend over 50% of their income on housing
9.4%
Can't afford suitable housing
Abstract green textured pattern with wavy, zigzag lines. The overlapping shades of green create a dynamic, rippling effect, evoking movement.
Three women laughing and smiling warmly in soft, golden sunlight. They are close together outside, creating a joyful and relaxed atmosphere.

Housing insecurity: Living month to month at risk of losing your home — often forced to choose between rent and basic necessities

Who We Are

We are a faith-based initiative dedicated to helping Lethbridge's working families.

50,000+
People Reached
120+
Community Projects
$2M
Funds Raised

SAIL (Supportive Accommodation for Independent Living) helps families who can’t afford stable housing by providing temporary rent support and ongoing coaching — giving them the time and support needed to get back on their feet and move toward independence.

Mission: To provide working families in Lethbridge with housing security, financial coaching, and a Christ-centered community that fosters healing, redemption, and lasting stability.

Vision: A Lethbridge where every family experiences the wholeness of Christ through stable housing, restored relationships, and a supportive village of believers.

Abstract green textured pattern with wavy, zigzag lines. The overlapping shades of green create a dynamic, rippling effect, evoking movement.
The Process

Our 4-Part Strategy to Support Families

SAIL employs a relational, step-by-step strategy that combines housing support, coaching, and community. Our approach works because families aren’t left to figure things out alone — they are given time, stability, and support to transform their lives in a sustainable way.

Tapering Rent Assisstance

SAIL covers 50% of rent in the first year, then gradually reduces support over the next two years — giving families time to move toward self-sufficiency.

Subsidy Schedule & Example:
• Year 1: 50% rent subsidy
• Year 2: 40% rent subsidy
• Year 3: 30% rent subsidy

Abstract green textured pattern with wavy, zigzag lines. The overlapping shades of green create a dynamic, rippling effect, evoking movement.

Coaching & Advocacy

Families are supported through practical coaching and advocacy — helping them set goals, navigate challenges, and move forward with confidence and direction.

Abstract green textured pattern with wavy, zigzag lines. The overlapping shades of green create a dynamic, rippling effect, evoking movement.

Community Support

SAIL thoughtfully connects families with a church community to walk alongside them — offering encouragement, relationship, and practical support through the journey.

Abstract green textured pattern with wavy, zigzag lines. The overlapping shades of green create a dynamic, rippling effect, evoking movement.

Independence Oriented

Every part of SAIL is designed to move families toward independence — building the stability, skills, and confidence needed to sustain housing long-term.

Abstract green textured pattern with wavy, zigzag lines. The overlapping shades of green create a dynamic, rippling effect, evoking movement.
Our Programmes

Building Sustainable Support Where It’s Needed Most

Abstract green textured pattern with wavy, zigzag lines. The overlapping shades of green create a dynamic, rippling effect, evoking movement.
No items found.
More Programmes Support Us
Our Events

How Our Work Comes to Life Across Communities

Event Details
No items found.

Event Details
No items found.
More Events Support Us

From Stability to Independence: An Example SAIL Journey

Meet Martha. Martha is a single mom who needs some help getting back on her feet. Every family's journey is different, but here's one example of how SAIL could walk alongside her toward independence.

Year One
50% Rental Subsidy
The full subsidy gives Martha gets some breathing room.
  • Connected with a supportive local community, such as a church
  • Paired with a coach who helps her identify goals and barriers
  • Begins working on practical goals like budgeting and building savings
  • Stable housing gives her room to think beyond the next rent payment
    • Year 2
    40% Rental Subsidy
    As rental support tapers, Martha starts building her capacity.
  • Works with her coach on employment and longer-term financial goals
  • Pursues professional development, training, or education relevant to her goals
  • Begins taking on a greater share of her housing costs
  • Relationships in her community become genuine sources of friendship and support
    • Year 3
    30% Rental Subsidy
    As the end of the program approaches, Martha is increasingly standing on her own.
  • Takes responsibility for most of her housing costs
  • Continues working toward career and financial goals
  • Builds an emergency cushion and greater financial resilience
  • Coaching shifts from intensive support toward encouragement and accountability
    • Year 4
    0% Rental Subsidy
    Martha is securely housed, independant and integrated in a supportive community.
  • Supports her housing independently
  • Has stronger skills, confidence, and financial stability
  • Remains connected to the relationships and community she's built
  • Has moved from receiving support to participating fully in her community
    • Testimonials

    Real Stories From Real People Making Change Happen

    “Being secure in a home means now I can move forward with my life.”
    - SAIL Participant
    Abstract green textured pattern with wavy, zigzag lines. The overlapping shades of green create a dynamic, rippling effect, evoking movement.
    Latest News & Updates

    Updates, Insights, and Voices From the Heart of Our Work

    This is some text inside of a div block.
    This is some text inside of a div block.

    Heading
    No items found.
    Explore More Support Us

    Help Working Families Move Forward

    Your support can transform the course of a family's life. Together, we can make a difference.

    Apply For Support Get Involved
    Two people sit outdoors at a table amidst lush greenery, smiling and looking at their phones. The scene conveys a joyful and relaxed atmosphere.
    Donate

    Support a SAIL Family

    There are many families in our community who need your help. By giving to SAIL, you aren't just providing relief for their daily needs, you are giving them a stepping stone towards finanacial independance.

    All gifts are appreciated, but please consider making a monthly donation. This ensures that we can provide consistent support to our families in need.

    Donate Now

    SAIL is a division of Love Lethbridge, by cliking the link you will be redirected to their giving portal.

    Intro Video