About
Society Of Organized Services (SOS) is a not-for-profit, registered Canadian Charity that was started by three local women in 1968. They were concerned that the needs of local school children were going unmet, and seniors who required assistance with basic necessities were becoming more vulnerable.
With the support of friends and neighbours, in 1969 the SOS Thrift Shop was opened to provide a secure funding base for the Society’s vital programs and services. Thanks to Thrift Shop revenues as well as donations of time and financial contributions from caring individuals, businesses and groups, SOS has evolved and expanded our reach into the community.
Today we provide dozens of free and subsidized community-based social service programs to residents of all ages living in School District 69 (Nanoose Bay to Bowser), Vancouver Island.
Our Impact
SOS programs and services are far-reaching and help to improve quality of life, financial stability, and mental health for residents of all ages. SOS Child, Youth and Family programs help to inspire confidence, provide positive mentoring, and nurture new connections through fun activities and wholesome food. We also offer tutoring for children and youth, assist families with fees for recreational activities and summer camps and help families when faced with financial emergencies.
Adults and seniors are also impacted by SOS programs that ensure their basic needs like food and medicine are met. We help low-income residents file their income taxes as well as deliver affordable, nutritious meals to seniors who want to maintain their independence and remain living at home. SOS connects residents with professional counsellors and helps seniors to age in place comfortably by providing non-medical support services and opportunities for social interaction.
We also assist many vulnerable residents with stable housing and work one-on-one with individuals who need help working through various concerns. And during the Christmas season, we ensure local children and youth have a gift under their tree and that families and individuals have food in the cupboards.
