A key step will be taken later this month to establish a new temporary emergency shelter in downtown Saskatoon.
The Saskatoon Tribal Council (STC) and several organizations have partnered on a proposal with “long-term potential” to help the city’s homeless population.
“Due to COVID, addictions and mental health are worse and homelessness is high. We mainly see indigenous peoples on the streets, ”STC tribal chief Mark Arcand said in a statement on Thursday.
“This is evidence of the long-lasting effects of residential schools and systemic racism that leads to intergenerational trauma, addiction, and mental health problems.
“We need a long-term strategy, an investment to keep people safe and healthy. STC will step up and do everything it can to help care for our people. We are in crisis mode. It is time to do the right thing. We want this initiative to be led by indigenous people for indigenous peoples ”.
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The City of Saskatoon offers a 9,200 square foot space at 145 1st Ave. N.
On December 7, the standing policy committee for planning, development and community services will consider a lease option that would allow the STC to operate the shelter for $ 10 for five months.
The Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) will offer services including mental health and addictions by referral, home care services, and COVID-19 supports for routine testing and immunization as needed.
“Having access to 50 additional shelter beds, supporting a wellness model will not only help people get out of the cold, but potentially link them with other appropriate health and social services to better meet their needs,” said the director of SHA primary health, Cristina. Ugolini said in a press release.
“This can also help reduce some of the pressures our emergency departments (ED) struggle with on a daily basis, as many use the ED as a refuge in times of challenge.”
Authorities said the shelter will be staffed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and will offer mental health and addiction services.
The Saskatoon Police Service (SPS) has a security and operations plan for the area around the shelter with uniformed and alternate response officers providing regular patrols.
“In light of the increasing volume of calls regarding the homeless and in crisis, the (SPS) is pleased to see this joint effort by the (STC) and the City of Saskatoon,” said SPS Superintendent Cam McBride in a release.
“We support any plan to offer an alternative to those who otherwise would not have had a safe haven.”
STC said the concept was developed as a safe alternative to homeless camps that have been present in the community and that efforts will be directed toward helping those facing homelessness obtain safe and long-term housing options. term.
The shelter will open as soon as possible after the possible approval of the lease by the city council on December 20, according to STC.
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