Advertisement

Opening of downtown Saskatoon emergency shelter delayed

The location of the temporary shelter facility at 145 1st Ave. N., Saskatoon. Global News

The opening of a temporary emergency shelter and wellness centre for those experiencing homelessness in Saskatoon has been delayed after city council unanimously approved it on Thursday.

The Saskatoon Tribal Council (STC) had been advocating to open the wellness centre as quickly as possible starting Monday, but says staff are now waiting on approval for an HVAC inspection that would ensure proper air circulation and ventilation in the building.

“We will follow all safety measures related to fire and health codes. We want to do this right,” said Tribal Chief Mark Arcand in a statement late Monday.

For news impacting Canada and around the world, sign up for breaking news alerts delivered directly to you when they happen.

Get breaking National news

For news impacting Canada and around the world, sign up for breaking news alerts delivered directly to you when they happen.
By providing your email address, you have read and agree to Global News' Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy.

“The Saskatoon Tribal Council believes that it is essential for our relatives and staff to be safe, and this is a priority for us.”

Story continues below advertisement

The facility is being prepared with laundry, showers, an entertainment room and social services for those experiencing homelessness amid cold weather and packed shelters this winter.

STC officials say they hope to help around 50 people at a time in the temporary facility. They have not given an expected date for opening but say they will update at a later date when they have more information.

Click to play video: 'Saskatoon Tribal Council on temporary emergency shelter approval'
Saskatoon Tribal Council on temporary emergency shelter approval

Sponsored content

AdChoices