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Resident voices help the City understand social issues and needs in Airdrie

Feb. 10, 2026
For immediate release

Airdrie, AB – The City of Airdrie has completed its first comprehensive Social Needs Assessment (SNA). A SNA is a study designed to provide a clear snapshot of a community’s strengths, social issues and emerging needs. This SNA will help inform decisions on social service investments, program development and collaborative strategies aimed at enhancing Airdrie’s community well-being .

Planning for the SNA began in late 2024, with survey development starting in January 2025. Data collection concluded in September 2025, and the findings are now publicly available. The assessment engaged 863 participants through surveys and other activities, all aimed at gathering a broad representation of community voices.

“The Social Needs Assessment creates a snapshot of where our community stands today,” says Chris Esselmont, social planner for the City of Airdrie. “It identifies key social issues and needs, helping us prioritize investments and guide the development of programs that matter most to residents.”

Key findings

The SNA highlights several pressing social needs:

  • Top social issues: Affordability, mental health and youth well-being
  • Biggest needs: Affordable housing, healthcare and mental health services, and services for youth

Barriers such as long wait times and limited availability of social services were also noted as challenges for residents seeking access to social programs and services.

Residents can expect a collaborative, solutions-focused process in 2026. The City will continue working closely with local non-profit organizations and community partners to address the findings identified in the SNA, and develop sustainable actions that improve safety, resilience and overall well-being.
“This assessment gives Council reliable information to guide smart, responsible decisions,” says Mayor Heather Spearman. “It also ensures we are well-positioned when advocating to senior governments and partners, so Airdrie is making the strongest possible case for support and collaboration.”
For more information and to view the full 2025 Social Needs Assessment What We Heard report, visit:  http://involve.airdrie.ca/socialneedsassessment 

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Media contact:
Communications, Engagement & Marketing
City of Airdrie
corporate.communications@airdrie.ca