In the story of Calgary’s fight against homelessness, one name stands out as a catalyst for change—Art Smith. A decorated war veteran, respected politician, and tireless advocate for community, Art’s legacy lives on through Calgary Homeless Foundation, the organization he founded to bring hope and housing to those who needed it most.
Art Smith was born and raised in Calgary. As a young man, he served as a pilot in the Royal Canadian Air Force during World War II, earning the Distinguished Flying Cross for his courage. After the war, he returned to Alberta, working in the oil industry before entering politics. He served as a city alderman, Alberta MLA, and three-time Member of Parliament, always guided by a deep commitment to public service.
But it was in 1998, during Calgary’s economic boom, that Art made one of his most enduring contributions. As people from across Canada arrived in the city seeking work, many found themselves unable to afford housing. A radio interview with the Salvation Army alerted Art to the growing crisis. He didn’t wait for someone else to act.
The Birth of Calgary Homeless Foundation
On March 25, 1998, Art called a meeting. He brought together members of Calgary’s business community and the Hawkesworth-Laing Committee, which had been studying homelessness. That day, he announced the creation of Calgary Homeless Foundation—the city’s first formal initiative to address homelessness.
“Art was a ‘doer’,” said John Currie, who attended the meeting and later led the Foundation. “When Art got an idea, it was transitioned into action very quickly.”
Under Art’s leadership, the Foundation became a bridge between government, private sector, faith communities, and service agencies. It provided damage deposits for families, increased housing supply, and raised awareness about homelessness across Calgary.
Planting Seeds for the Future
Even after stepping down from the board, Art remained deeply involved. He helped launch Calgary’s 10 Year Plan to End Homelessness in 2008, a bold initiative that reflected his belief in long-term, systemic change. Despite battling cancer, he continued to advocate, inspire, and lead.
Six months after the Plan’s launch, Art passed away at age 89. His wife, Betty Ann, stood beside him throughout his journey, and his family honored his legacy by dedicating memorial tributes to the Foundation.
A Legacy That Lives On
“It’s very difficult to do something about [homelessness] as an individual,” said Jim Stanford, former CEO of Petro-Canada. “But Art created a vehicle […] that allowed people to participate.”
Today, Calgary Homeless Foundation is recognized across Canada and beyond for its innovative approach to guiding the fight against homelessness. Art’s spirit lives in every initiative, every partnership, and every person who finds their way home.
