We Connect, Engage and Strengthen Individuals & Families
About SHARE
SHARE exists to connect, engage and strengthen individuals & families. Our programs and services focus on uprooting poverty, improving social well-being and building an inclusive community.
Since 1972, we have provided community based programs and services to those in need in the Tri-Cities and surrounding communities.
From babies taking their first steps, youth finding their footing and families facing hard moments, to newcomers beginning again and seniors striving to remain independent—SHARE Family & Community Services provides connection, care and opportunity at every stage of life.
Our History
This year marks SHARE’s 54th year of service.
In 1972, SHARE Family & Community Services started as a clothing exchange in the basement of founder Gertie Grosser’s home. Gertie started the clothing exchange to assist young families. She saw a need and provided support. It quickly became a focal point for community members who wanted to help their neighbours with life’s challenges.
Early programs included a drop-in for men and women, a Mother’s Club, a crisis line, a recycling program, and food and toys for those in need. As the community grew and changed, so did “SHARE Centre.”
Two decades later in 1990, SHARE established its sister organization, 43 Housing, which now operates 388 units of affordable housing across six locations in the Tri-Cities.
SHARE Today
Today, SHARE Family and Community Services Society is a registered charity, an independent, community-based non-profit and one of the largest employers in the Tri-Cities.
Our staff speak over 25 languages and we continue to connect, engage, and strengthen the ever-changing needs of the communities we serve.
Today, SHARE provides leadership, services and programs to respond to the social needs of over 30,000 residents in the Tri-Cities region—including the cities of Port Coquitlam, Coquitlam and Port Moody, the villages of Belcarra and Anmore, and New Westminster.
As always, our work is grounded in the realities of vulnerability—supporting children, youth, adults, families and seniors experiencing poverty, isolation and exclusion. We intervene before challenges escalate into crises, ensuring our clients receive the right support at the right time to change their trajectory.
SHARE’s impact is strengthened through close collaboration with our 40 local partners across the healthcare system, first responders, community-based justice and social services, municipalities and Indigenous advisors—and is made possible through the generous support of provincial funders, donors, local business partners and community groups—as well as the contributions of hundreds of volunteers each year.