Emergency shelter spaces announced for Prince Albert, Sask.

YWCA Prince Albert is receiving funding from the Saskatchewan government to create 45 additional emergency shelter spaces in the community.

These enhanced emergency shelter spaces will provide clients with shelter space 24 hours a day, seven days a week, as well as with three meals a day, case planning, and access to wrap-around supports to help people transition.

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“The Ministry of Social Services supports vulnerable people in need of shelter by connecting them with community organizations that offer emergency shelter spaces,” said Social Services Minister Gene Makowsky.

“Along with community partners, we are working to improve outcomes for people experiencing homelessness and better support individuals who need more than a home to remain connected to housing.”

Funding of $830,000 is going towards the additional spaces, with the Stepping Stones Emergency Shelter expected to be running temporarily at the Exhibition Grounds as of Nov. 1 while work continues to find a permanent home for the shelter.

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“This commitment from the provincial government opens a new chapter in how we can better serve our homeless population,” said Donna Brooks, YWCA Prince Albert.

“It has been realized through many hours, days and months of collaboration with our community partners and leaders and speaks to the compassion the people of Prince Albert have for those who may need a hand up. The new funding will allow us to substantially increase the number of our most marginalized citizens we can keep safe and connect with services this winter. Meanwhile, our quest to find a permanent location for Stepping Stones is on-going, with a goal of having an appropriate site identified before the new year.”

This money is part of the province’s Provincial Approach to Homelessness plan that was announced on Oct. 6.