Employment and Income Programs

WorkBC Centres

These are the local hubs for career information and job search help.

See WorkBC Centres

Each centre provides various employment services. Includes resume building, job search assistance, skills training, financial supports and more. They also offer free computer access, printing, and faxing for job seekers. Find out which WorkBC location to visit on their website or ask at your local library.

Also have online career planning and aptitude quizzes that explore which careers might be the best fit for you.

Employment Programs

Find help deciding on a career, résumé assistance, loans to buy equipment, job training and more.

See Employment Programs

Active Generation for Employment (AGE) for Job Seekers Age 55+

245 - 10330 152nd Street, Surrey BC (get directions to Active Generation for Employment (AGE) for Job Seekers Age 55+)
778-394-8822
Helps workers over the age of 55. 3-week paid group-based vocational and job search skills training for mature job seekers. Followed by one-to-one job search and job maintenance coaching.
Learn more about Active Generation for Employment (AGE) for Job Seekers Age 55+.age-info@success.bc.ca

BARISTAS Training

201 - 10334 152A Street, Surrey BC (get directions to BARISTAS Training)
604-999-2301 baristas@pcrs.ca
Free program for youth ages 16-30 years old. Offers 3 certificates including Food Safe, Super Host and Serving It Right.
Learn more about BARISTAS Training.

BC Newcomer Services Program

150 - 10362 King George Blvd, Surrey, BC V3T 2W5 (get directions to BC Newcomer Services Program)
604-999-0625
Helps newcomers enter the job market and improve their language skills.
Learn more about BC Newcomer Services Program.

Career Paths for Skilled Immigrants

Helps immigrant professionals use their skills, training, and foreign qualifications. Find work that matches your experience and background.
Learn more about Career Paths for Skilled Immigrants

Coast Capital Credentialing Program for Newcomer Women

604-547-2275 ashahin@dcrs.ca
Connects you with a career navigator to help you update your foreign credentials. Also provides up to $2000 to cover exams or licensing fees. Must be 30 years or older, in Canada for less than 5 years, and be a protected person, or have PR or citizenship.
Learn more about Coast Capital Credentialing Program for Newcomer Women.

Diverse Entrepreneurs Business Incubator

604-547-1662 selfemployment@dcrs.ca
Offers tailored support, resources, and guidance for aspiring immigrant entrepreneurs. With personalized one-on-one consultations and expert mentorship, participants gain valuable insights. There is also the chance to showcase their businesses and achievements at our annual Entrepreneurship & Small Business Fair and business pitch events.
Learn more about Diverse Entrepreneurs Business Incubator.

EMBERS Staffing Solutions—Surrey Office

13959 100 Avenue Surrey, BC V3T 1J4 (get directions to EMBERS Staffing Solutions)
778-293-0781 surrey@embersstaffing.com
EMBERS helps people find short and long-term jobs placements. Jobs in construction, hospitality, warehousing, and cleaning. They offer support and chances to move up. Will provide needed PPE through their equipment lending library.
Learn more about EMBERS Staffing Solutions.

Employment Programs @ PICS

205 - 12725 80th Avenue, Surrey BC (get directions to PICS)
604-596-7722
Wide range of employment programs. Includes a number of shorter term certificate programs designed to get people working.
Learn more about Employment Programs @ PICS.

Empowered for Employment

#204A -15252 32 Ave., Surrey, B.C. V3Z 0R7 (get directions to Empowered for Employment)
604-262-4858 eeinfo@sourcesbc.ca
Free job programs help people get ready for and find work. Two current programs available:
Admin and Accounting Works is a free 11-week program for adults 55 years of age and over. Program will help you gain the knowledge and confidence to work in Office Administration.
Skills for Today’s Workplace is an 11-week program designed for individuals who have been impacted by violence and/or abuse as an adult or child. Helps you gain skills training and obtain employment. Helps people explore career interests and talents. Prepares individuals to enter the workforce with marketable skills and increased confidence.
Learn more about Empowered for Employment.

Fast Track to Manufacturing Plus (F2M Plus)

200A - 7134 King George Boulevard, Surrey BC (get directions to Fast Track to Manufacturing Plus)
778-591-9334 f2mplus@mosaicbc.org
Program for young adults (16 to 29 years old) to learn about careers in manufacturing and trades. Paid training and workshops, certificates, and help developing a career path. 3 weeks of paid employment readiness workshops and 3 weeks of paid technical skills training. Gain first aid, WHMIS, and other certificates. Will help you develop a personalized career path plan.
Learn more about Fast Track to Manufacturing Plus.

Foreign Credential Recognition Program

205 - 12725 80th Avenue, Surrey BC (get directions to the Foreign Credential Recognition Program)
604-596-7722 Ext: 157
Helps internationally trained professionals reenter their profession or a related field. Offers a loan amount up to $30,000, to cover the cost of credentialing. Flexible repayment schedule. Also has a range of supports to help you in your career, including things like career advising and resume support.
Learn more about Foreign Credential Recognition Program.

Foundry Work & Education Program

FWEP@foundrybc.ca
Free supported program for youth ages 15-24 experiencing challenges with education and employment. Offers support and guidance in navigating the sometimes overwhelming decisions. Can help if you are interested in working, going to school, or completing a training program. Can be accessed virtually through the Foundry BC App, or in-person at Foundry centres across BC.
Learn more about the Foundry Work & Education Program.

Future Leaders

Unit 201, 7485 – 130 Street Surrey, BC (get directions to Future Leaders)
604-597-0205 youthjobs@dcrs.ca
Free, innovative youth employment program that will set you up for career success. Explore different job options. Improve your resume and interview preparation skills. Get one on one coaching and mentorship. For permanent residents, Canadian citizens and protected persons aged 15–30.
Learn more about Future Leaders.

Future Troopers

Unit 201, 7485 – 130 Street Surrey, BC (get directions to Future Troopers)
604-597-0205 youthjobs@dcrs.ca
Employment specialists will aid you in the course you want to take and help you find a job. Receive skills training and earn Canadian employer-recognized certification. Also offers support with transportation, work clothes, and tools for the job. For youth aged 17–29 who are Canadian citizens or permanent residents, unemployed or underemployed.
Learn more about Future Troopers.

H.E.A.L. Work Program for Women

13455 76 Avenue Surrey BC (get directions to H.E.A.L Work Program for Women)
604-547-1311 heal@dcrs.ca
Program empowers survivors of violence to get into the labour market. Offers tuition fee support and occupational skills training. Gain paid work experience, childcare supports, and individual counselling. Up to $1,000 in completion bonuses. Program open to survivors of violence or trauma, who are experiencing health issues like stress, depression, or anxiety. Must be unemployed or working less than 20 hours per week and be a permanent resident or Canadian citizen.
Learn more about H.E.A.L. Work Program for Women.

La Boussole

312 Main St, Vancouver BC (get directions to La Boussole)
604-683-7337
Centre communautaire Francophone soutenant les Francophones en situation de précarité. Offre une variété de programmes sociaux, d'activités et de soutien à la recherche d'emploi. Francophone community center supporting Francophones in precarious situations. Offers a variety of social programs, activities and job search support.
Learn more about La Boussole.

Neil Squire Society

400 - 3999 Henning Drive, Burnaby BC (get directions to the Neil Squire Society)
604-473-9363
Offer a range of services for individuals with disabilities. Can help you build digital skills, or find assistive technology solutions that work for you. Have programs around finding employment and building job skills.
Learn more about Neil Squire Society.

Newcomer Employment Program

13520 78 Ave, Surrey, BC V3W 8J6 (get directions to the Newcomer Employment Support Program)
604-954-0483 nep@options.bc.ca
Newcomers have access to services which help them adapt their skills and/or knowledge for the Canadian work environment to increase their employability. Offers services to permanent residents, protected persons and convention refugees.
Learn more about Newcomer Employment Support Program.

S.A.H.A.R.A. Program for Men

13455 76 Avenue Surrey BC (get directions to S.A.H.A.R.A program for Men)
604-547-1311 sahara@dcrs.ca
Program empowers men with multiple barriers such as substance abuse, health issues or criminal records to get back into the labour market. Offers tuition fee support, occupational skills training, work experience, and up to $1000 in completion bonuses. Must be unemployed or working less than 20 hours per week, and a permanent resident or Canadian citizen.
Learn more about S.A.H.A.R.A. Program for Men.

Safe Haven

604-597-0205 safehaven@dcrs.ca
Offers support to refugee claimants and other humanitarian newcomers. Offers a wide range of help with housing, finding work, and learning English. Also has access to counselling services. 2SLGBTQI+ support.
Learn more about Safe Haven.

SEED Youth Employment Program

13769 - 104th Avenue, Surrey BC (get directions to the SEED Youth Employment Program)
604-587-6634 seedyouth@douglascollege.ca
Program to help unemployed youth 16 to 30 years old find and keep a full-time job. Can help build work experience. Learn pre-employment skills, get short-term occupational certificate training and receive job search strategies and support. Includes 6 weeks of paid online classroom training and 8 weeks of work experience with an employer.
Learn more about SEED Youth Employment Program.

Self-employment Programs @ ISSofBC

301 - 10334 152A Street, Surrey BC (get directions to ISSofBC)
604-683-1684 sparkandignite@issbc.org
Range of self-employment programs for permanent residents, refugees, protected persons, and live-in caregivers or temporary foreign workers. Learn about business plans, and build your skills.
Learn more about Self-employment Programs @ ISSofBC.

Surrey Intercultural Youth Service Corps

#205 -12725 80th Avenue, Surrey BC (get directions to the Surrey Intercultural Youth Service Corps Project)
604-596-7722 ext 306 siyscorps@pics.bc.ca
Provide valuable leadership training, community engagement skills and volunteer placements, so that youth can build community connections and prepare to enter into the work force.
Learn more about Surrey Intercultural Youth Service Corps Project.

Warehousing Program at Back In Motion

110 - 6651 Elmbridge Way, Richmond BC (get directions to Back In Motion)
604-273-7350
A unique opportunity for individuals with disabilities, who are interested in working in warehousing. Get an in-depth view of potential job tasks in a live simulated warehouse environment.
Learn more about Warehousing Program at Back In Motion.

Youth Career and Business Builders

604-596-7722, ext. 160 & 162 careerbuilders@pics.bc.ca
The Program is designed to support youth (16-29 years) over the weeks by exploring different programs, taking assessments, and ultimately choosing a career path in developing and implementing an Occupational Training Plan and successfully completing the training and certification required to attain meaningful, sustainable employment or training.
Learn more about Youth Career and Business Builders.

Youth Trade Builders Program by PICS

Unit 205, 12725- 80th Ave Surrey BC (get directions to PICS)
604-596-7722 ext: 150
Program for people aged 16-29 who are interested in the building trades. Program that explores different technical occupations. Will help you develop essential skills and safety training.
Learn more about the Youth Trade Builders Program.

Youth Works

604-591-9262, ext. 117 youthworks@bgcbc.ca
4 weeks of online group-based workshops and certificate training followed by a 6-week work experience placement with a local employer. Wage paid during training and work placement. For people 15 to 30 years old.
Learn more about Youth Works.

Income Supports

Learn about pension programs, help with income assistance or disability applications, rent supports and more.

See Income Supports

In person help is available at the two locations below for Service Canada programs.

Service Canada North Surrey
13889 104th Avenue, Surrey BC (get directions to Services Canada North Surrey)

Service Canada South Surrey
103 - 15295 Highway 10, Surrey BC (get directions to Services Canada South Surrey)

Askanadvocate.ca by SOURCES

Provides basic and clear information about income assistance, disability benefits (provincial and federal), tenancy, and other income supports. Has videos, FAQs, fact sheets, and links to other services and resources.
Learn more about Ask An Advocate by Sources.

The Benefits Finder

Online tool helps find what government benefits you are eligible for.
Learn more about the Benefits Finder.

Canada Pension Plan (CPP) & Survivor Benefits(Service Canada)

1-800-277-9914
The Canada Pension Plan (CPP) retirement pension is a monthly, taxable benefit that replaces part of your income when you retire. If you qualify, you’ll receive the CPP retirement pension for the rest of your life.
Learn more about the Canada Pension Plan (CPP) & Survivor Benefits(Service Canada).

Credit Counselling Society of BC

201 - 15399 102A Avenue, Surrey BC (get directions to the Credit Counselling Society of BC)
604-527-8999
Non-profit service helping people from all walks of life manage their money and debt better. No walk-ins, call for appointment.
Learn more about the Credit Counselling Society of BC.

Debtors Anonymous

604-878-3328
A group meeting for people dealing with compulsive debt. Gather to share experiences, strengths and hopes and work to solve common problems and help others recover.
Learn more about Debtors Anonymous.

Disability Alliance BC

1450 - 605 Robson Street, Vancouver BC (get directions to the Disability Alliance BC)
604-875-0188 (Advocacy Access Line) 236-427-1108 (Disability Law Clinic)
Provides a range of services and programs for people with disabilities. Can help with apply for disability benefits and appeal if you are denied. Also offers a law clinic and a variety of workshops. Offers remote services and are slowly beginning to offer in-person assistance. Please call the advocacy access line for the most current information about office re-opening.
Learn more about the Disability Alliance BC.

Employment Insurance (EI) Benefits

1-800-206-7218
Payments from the Federal Government if you are unable to work for a variety reasons. Some of the common reason are:
Job Loss: You can apply for benefits if you have lost your job through no fault of your own.
Sickness: Can also apply if you are unable to work due to sickness, injury or quarantine.
Maternal and parental leave benefits: Maternity benefits for people away from work because they are pregnant or have just given birth. Parental leave can be shared between parents. There is also a 5 or 8 week benefit for partners to care for the baby.
Caregiving benefits: Apply if you are providing care or support to a critically ill or injured person, or someone needing end-of-life care.
Learn more about Employment Insurance (EI) Benefits.

Guaranteed Income supplement (Service Canada)

1-800-277-9914
The Guaranteed Income Supplement provides additional money, on top of the Old Age Security pension, to low-income seniors living in Canada. To be eligible for the GIS benefit, must be receiving the Old Age Security pension and meet the income requirements. Service also available through Service Canada Centre's.
Learn more about the Guaranteed Income supplement (Service Canada).

Last Post Fund

1-800-465-7113
Helps pay funeral and burial expenses for qualifying service members with the Canadian Military. Also can provide grave markers.
Learn more about the Last Post Fund.

Old Age Security Pension & Survivor Allowance (Service Canada)

1-800-277-9914
OAS pension is a monthly payment available to most Canadians aged 65+. Survivor Allowance is federal income benefit for low-income seniors who are 60 to 64 and whose spouse was collecting OAS and GIS but has died. Must also meet legal and residency requirements.
Learn more about the Old Age Security Pension & Survivor Allowance (Service Canada).

Registered Disability Savings Plan

1-800-959-8281
A registered disability savings plan (RDSP) is a savings plan to help parents and others save for the long term financial security of a person who is eligible for the disability tax credit (DTC).
Learn more about the Registered Disability Savings Plan.

Rental Assistance Program

604-433-2218
Provides eligible low-income, working families help with their rent. To qualify, families must have a gross household income of $40,000 or less, at least one dependent child, and employed at some point over the last year.
Learn more about the Rental Assistance Program.

SAFER (Shelter Aid for Elderly Renters)

604-433-2218
Helps make rents affordable for BC seniors with low to moderate incomes. Provides monthly payments to subsidize rents for eligible BC residents who are age 60 or over and who pay rent for their homes.
Learn more about the SAFER (Shelter Aid for Elderly Renters).

SOURCES Newton Resource Centre

102 - 13771 72A Avenue, Surrey BC (get directions to the SOURCES Newton Resource Centre)
778-731-9195 www.askanadvocate.ca
Wide range of supports, information and advocacy for income assistance, disability, housing and federal income assistance programs. Can also help with housing issues, including looking for housing, and with the SOURCES Rent Bank. There is also a SOURCES Pro-Bono legal clinic.
Learn more about the SOURCES Newton Resource Centre.

Child Care

Learn about funding available to help pay for child care.

See Child Care

Affordable Child Care Benefit

Monthly payment to help eligible families with the cost of child care. Factors like income, family size, and type of care determine how much support families can get. You can find the application forms online. There is also an online calculator to estimate your funding. Funding goes directly the daycare provider to offset your cost.
Learn more about the Affordable Child Care Benefit.

Child Care Options Resource & Referral Program

Surrey Office: 100 - 6846 King George Boulevard, Surrey BC (get directions to the Surrey Child Care Options Resource and Referral Program)
604-572-8032 childcareoptions@options.bc.ca
Delta Office: 1218 56 Avenue, Delta V4L 2A4 (get directions to the Delta Child Care Options Resources and Referral Program)
604-547-3549 Delta.CCRR@options.bc.ca
Connects families and child care providers in Delta, Surrey and White Rock. Provides support, referrals, and assistance with the Affordable Child Care Benefit applications. You can also access a lending library. Offers workshops and programs for both parents and the child care providers.
Learn more about the Child Care Options Resource & Referral Program.

Tax Benefits & Income Tax Clinics

Hands holding a pen and writing on paper

Learn about income tax clinics and some of the tax programs that you may benefit from.

See Tax Benefits & Income Tax Clinics

It is worth filing income tax, especially for lower income people. You can only get these benefits if you qualify and file income tax yearly.

Tax Benefits

B.C. Renter's Tax Credit

1-800-959-828
Renter's tax credit based on annual income. This tax credit gives $400 to low- and moderate-income renter individuals and families with an adjusted income of $63,000 or less. Individuals and families with an adjusted income greater than $63,000 and less than $83,000 may receive a reduced amount.
Learn more about the B.C. Renter's Tax Credit.

Canada Child Benefit (CCB)

1-800-387-1193
Canada Child Tax Benefit is a tax-free monthly payment made to eligible families to help them with the cost of raising children under age 18. Additional benefits for children with a disability.
Learn more about the Canada Child Benefit (CCB).

Child and Family Tax Benefits Information

Website covers the provincial and federal tax benefits for children and families.
Learn more about the Child and Family Tax Benefits Information.

GST/HST Credit

GST/HST Credit program issues payments to Canadians with low and modest incomes. Helps offset all or part of the GST/HST they pay on goods and services. Assessment based on filed tax return, those eligible are contacted; if you have a spouse or common partner, only 1 receives the credit.
Learn more about the GST/HST Credit.

Income Tax Clinic at Brella (For Seniors)

15008 26 Avenue, Surrey BC (get directions to the Income Tax Clinic at Brella)
604-531-9400 ext. 214
Free seniors tax clinic. Appointments required for in-person, drop-offs, or telephone services. Offered in March and April each year.
Learn more about the Income Tax Clinic at Brella.

Income Tax Clinic at DIVERSEcity

13455 76 Avenue, Surrey BC
604-306-8422 ffaqiri@dcrs.ca
Free tax clinic, by appointment only. Help in English, Arabic, Dari, Hindi, Kiswahili, Punjabi.
Learn more about Income Tax Clinic at DIVERSEcity.

Income Tax Clinic at Peace Portal Alliance Church

15128 27B Avenue, Surrey BC
236-988-4333 taxclinic@peaceportalalliance.com
Free tax clinic. Walk-in, virtual, by appointment. Offered in March and April.
Learn more about Income Tax Clinic at Peace Portal Alliance Church.

Income Tax Clinic at PICS

205 - 12725 80 Avenue, Surrey BC (get directions to the Income Tax Clinic at PICS)
604-596-7722 taxclinic@pics.bc.ca
Free tax clinic. Appointments required for all services. Offered in March and April only.
Learn more about the Income Tax Clinic at PICS.

Income Tax Clinic at Sources BC

604-542-4357 volunteertaxclinic@sourcesbc.ca
Available at various locations in Surrey and White Rock by appointment only.
Learn more about the Income Tax Clinic at Sources BC.

Income Tax Clinic at Surrey Alliance Church

13474 96 Avenue, Surrey BC (get directions to the Income Tax Clinic at Surrey Alliance Tax Service)
604-728-3220 taxhelpsac@gmail.com
Free tax clinic. Appointments required for all services. Available in March and April only.
Learn more about the Income Tax Clinic @ Surrey Alliance Tax Service.

Income Assistance Offices

Find your local income assistance office.

See Income Assistance Offices

1-866-866-0800

Fleetwood Office:
101 - 16088 84 Avenue, Surrey BC (get directions to the Fleetwood Income Assistance Office)

Park Place Office:
130 - 13749 72 Avenue, Surrey BC (get directions to the Park Place Income Assistance Office)

North Surrey Office:
100 - 13650 102 Avenue, Surrey BC (get directions to the Surrey-North Income Assistance Office)

Apply online for income or disability assistance.

Looking for services not covered here?

Please ask at your local library. We are here to help.

You can also call 211 for a free, confidential, multilingual information and referral line to a full range of community, social, and government services. Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

If you would like further information or if you spot a change that is needed you can contact us.

Surrey Libraries does not endorse or promote particular resources or programs, and inclusion here does not imply the Library’s endorsement.