COVID-19 UPDATE
Here is what we are doing to protect you and to protect others:
- Our office at 4445 Norfolk Street in Burnaby will continue to be closed to the public. However, there is a confidential drop-box in the entrance lobby and the box is cleared daily. All completed permit application forms dropped off at our office will be processed within 24 hours and your permit mailed to you.
- If you are an existing permit holder, you can renew your permit online at https://online.sparc.bc.ca. You will receive a renewal notice in the mail.
- If you have any questions or need assistance, please call our helpdesk for support at 604-718-7744 or toll free 1-888-718-7794.
Homelessness Community Action Grants
Working, learning and acting together to end homelessness
The Social Planning and Research Council of British Columbia (SPARC BC) has been asked by the Province to administer the Homelessness Community Action Grant program which provides $6 million to help community groups address homelessness in their communities. This grant will support organizations or communities in exploring ways to better meet the needs of those who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless.
Learn More
2018 Child Poverty Report Card
The 2018 Report Card shows that BC continues to struggle with high levels of child poverty, with 1 in 5 children under the age of 17 in BC living below the poverty line.
download PDF
B.C. Seniors’ Poverty Report Card
British Columbia is experiencing a rapid ageing of our population. Based on BC Stats Population Projections, the number of seniors (65+ years old) in British Columbia is expected to double between 2015 and 2041.
download PDF
BC Families Infographic Series
The BC Council for Families has partnered with SPARC BC to produce a series of infographics about family demographics in regional districts across BC...
read more
BC and Regional Districts Profiles
This series of fact-sheets shows key community indicators at a glance. How does your region measure up?
New Directions Survey
The New Directions Survey of Non-Profit Organizations and Voluntary Associations in BC collected data and stories about the sector from 1,865 non-profit organizations in more than 170 communities across BC.
Download New Directions Reports:
Survey Report 2015 (PDF)
Community Conversations Report (PDF)
Collectively Speaking (PDF)
The Invisible Senior
Through personal stories, West End seniors shed light on many issues facing older renters in the West End. Produced by West End Seniors Network (WESN) and SPARC BC in collaboration with local seniors, Gordon Neighbourhood House and the West End Seniors’ Community Planning Table.
Metro Vancouver's Debtscape
This report maps the changing ratios of income, debt and assets over the time period between 2007 and 2012 – at the neighbourhood level.
download PDF
https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2020SDPR0012-000620