Saskatoon Mayor Cynthia Block has confirmed that the city will not need to hastily open winter warming centers this year. The province has allocated $3 million to support year-round drop-in center services, including winter warming centers. The funding increase for the homelessness plan was announced by the province during a media event in Saskatoon last Thursday.
Block emphasized that having predictable and sustainable funding sets the foundation for finding lasting solutions. In the previous year, the city’s emergency warm-up shelters did not open until late November and early December. “This ensures that right from the start, everyone has a secure place to stay,” Block informed reporters. She added, “With year-round coverage, we no longer need to differentiate between winter warming or summer drop-ins. While program specifics may vary, we can guarantee their continuity.”
The announcement focused solely on “drop-in homelessness services” without specifying potential locations or the number of drop-in centers that may operate. Collaborative efforts between the province, city, and service providers are ongoing to determine these details.
A recent point-in-time count conducted on October 8, 2024, identified 1,499 individuals experiencing homelessness, almost tripling the count from 2022, which was 550.
Last winter, temporary warming centers were set up at the Saskatoon Indian and Métis Friendship Centre and St. Mary’s Parish. Block expressed that the new funding will prevent the city from scrambling to secure warm-up shelter spaces when winter weather sets in. She stated, “This funding will save significant amounts of time and resources previously spent on urgent winter warming or summer drop-in center arrangements, allowing us to focus on other city priorities.”
The $3 million funding boost is part of the province’s existing $40-million Provincial Approach to Homelessness (PATH) plan. The province intends to incorporate the additional funding into a new plan upon the expiration of the current PATH initiative.
Moreover, permanent complex needs shelters are being established in Saskatoon, Regina, and Prince Albert. While a permanent emergency shelter is operational in Regina, plans are underway for the other two cities.
During the announcement, Premier Scott Moe highlighted the importance of offering diverse support options for individuals in need. He acknowledged the growing societal challenges and complexity surrounding homelessness, emphasizing the necessity to address the issue. Moe commended Block for her successful advocacy in securing stable funding for drop-in services.
