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The Aboriginal Front Door Society | Indigenous Support in Vancouver

Welcome to the Aboriginal Front Door Society

Restoring Respect, Dignity and Pride for Aboriginal Peoples 

In the heart of Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside, the Aboriginal Front Door Society extends a warm, culturally grounded embrace to Indigenous Peoples and non-Indigenous community members seeking support and belonging. We offer essential services—including an emergency weather response warming shelter, personal storage, a weekday food truck service, and drop-in programs. Committed to serving our community with respect and care, we journey together toward long-term housing solutions to foster safety and stability. Rooted in respect, dignity, culture, and traditional values, we invite everyone seeking hope, healing, and resilience to walk with us on this path.

OUR SUPPORT PATHWAYS 

AFDS food truck serving meals at 384 Main Street

Food Truck Program

AFDS food truck, located at 384 Main Street Vancouver, provides nutritious and delicious meals to the community.

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Guests resting at the AFDS emergency warming shelter

Emergency Shelter

Aboriginal Front Door Society’s Warming Shelter provides crucial refuge for the community during severe weather. 

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Secure storage bins for personal belongings

Bin Storage

Aboriginal Front Door Society’s Bin Storage Program offers individuals a safe, secure space for their belongings.

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Community members sharing a meal at the AFDS drop-in centre

Drop-In 

Aboriginal Front Door Society’s Drop-In Centre at 384 Main St, Vancouver, offers a safe, welcoming space for support.

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AFDS community members gathered in the Downtown Eastside

Our Vision

In the heart of the Downtown Eastside, we envision Aboriginal people walking through life with love, honour, respect, and compassion for all of creation—including themselves. By addressing addictions, dependencies, and other challenges in a holistic manner rooted in Aboriginal teachings whenever possible, we strive to empower our entire community. Together, we embrace a journey toward healing, balance, and harmony for all. 

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Aboriginal Front Door Society Statistics

MEALS

We help provide over 58,000 nutritious meals annually, including snacks and coffee, to combat food insecurity and support community well-being.

EMERGENCY SHELTER

We offer safe refuge to more than 5,000 individuals during extreme weather conditions, ensuring they receive warmth, safety, and essential resources.

CULTURAL PROGRAMS

We facilitate over 120 cultural gatherings and teachings annually, fostering deeper community connection, preserving traditions, and promoting meaningful cultural revitalization.

HOUSING ASSISTANCE

AFDS helps support 1,200+ individuals annually by providing referrals, essential resources, and guidance to reduce homelessness and promote long-term stability


September 30 · National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

Every Child Matters.

On September 30 we honour residential school Survivors, the children who never came home, and their families and communities. Many of the people who walk through our front door carry this history every day.

Wear orange. Listen to Survivors. Learn the truth. Then act on it, all year long.

Hear our storySupport Indigenous-led care

Need support right now? The National Indian Residential School Crisis Line is available 24 hours a day: 1-866-925-4419

Thank you to everyone who supported Carl’s 4,000 km ride for the Front Door. Read Carl’s story →

Our Mission

Our mission is to empower Indigenous peoples to walk through life with love, honour, respect, and compassion for all living beings—including themselves. By offering holistic support rooted in Indigenous teachings, we help individuals address challenges and restore balance and well-being within their lives and communities.

Vision and Values Image

Our Core Values

Upholding Our Sacred Bond with the Community

Respect for All Nations

We honour the traditions, cultures, and ancient wisdom of Indigenous communities, recognizing every individual's rich diversity and inherent dignity.

Integrity in Action

Guided by honesty and ethical practices, we ensure transparency and accountability to our supporters and communities.

Strength in Community

We nurture a sense of belonging and mutual support, strengthening the community's sacred bonds and encouraging a collaborative spirit.

Empowerment Through Self-Determination

We promote self-determination and provide resources for community-led initiatives, enabling individuals to lead positive transformations.

Walking Together in Collaboration

We journey alongside communities, partners, and stakeholders to achieve shared visions, understanding that collective efforts lead to a more significant impact.

Preserving Our Cultural Heritage

We are committed to preserving and revitalizing Indigenous languages, traditions, and ancestral knowledge for the next seven generations.

Inclusivity of All Voices

We ensure that every voice is heard and valued, creating a circle where everyone feels welcome and respected.

Stewardship and Sustainability

We promote practices that support Mother Earth's and our communities' long-term well-being, recognizing our responsibility to future generations.

Thank You for Visiting


The Aboriginal Front Door Society supports the healing and empowerment of all peoples. Rooted in culture and respect, we create welcoming spaces for growth and belonging. Join us in building a future of resilience and hope through community and collaboration.

Join Our Mission

Your donation keeps meals, warmth, safe storage and drop-in support available in the Downtown Eastside. Every gift helps us walk alongside our community.

Donate today

Find Support

Visit us at 384 Main Street for meals, a warm place to rest, safe storage and caring support. Everyone who comes through our front door is welcome.

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