Homeless Shelter Opens

The provincial government has provided $124,400 to establish 15 emergency shelter spaces. The spaces will be operated by the John Howard Society.

The funding is part of the Provincial Approach to Homelessness announced in October 2023.

"The Ministry of Social Services is pleased to support John Howard in its important work caring for members in their community who are experiencing homelessness," Social Services Minister Gene Makowsky said in a statement.

Willow Lodge opened this week at 83 Ominica Street West - former SaskTel building - providing emergency shelter services for men and women between the hours of 8 p.m. and 8 a.m.

Funding is provided to enable Willow Lodge to open and operate 15 shelter spaces from January 22, 2024, to March 31, 2024.  

The $40.2 million investment in new funding through the Provincial Approach to Homelessness over the next two years will create 155 new supportive housing spaces, 120 new permanent emergency shelter spaces, and enhance community safety and outreach responses. 

The additional funding for 120 new emergency shelter spaces in Saskatchewan communities, based on need, will mean approximately 500 permanent emergency shelter spaces are available across the province this winter.