Keeping People Warm This Winter
Everyone needs a warm and safe place to sleep during our cold Saskatchewan winters. That is why the Government of Saskatchewan, along with its community partners, is once again launching its Cold Weather Strategy.
“Saskatchewan winters can be dangerous for people who don’t have a home or funds to pay for their needs,” Social Services Minister Paul Merriman said. “Regardless of whether someone is a current income assistance client, or what income assistance program they’re on, the ministry will work closely with its community partners to ensure everyone has access to shelter during cold weather.”
“If you are homeless, couch surfing, evicted or fleeing an unsafe living arrangement, Mobile Crisis Services will help connect you to community partners to ensure you are not out in the cold,” Regina Mobile Crisis Executive Director John McFadyen said.
“Saskatchewan winters can be difficult and challenging at the best of times, but for those who may be experiencing homelessness, those challenges are magnified,” Salvation Army Major Mike Hoeft said. “The Cold Weather Strategy creates a process whereby no one should be without a safe, warm place to stay. We encourage people who are at risk to make contact with our shelter offices at any time of the day or night so we can help ensure no one is left out in the cold.”
If ongoing supports are required, residents can apply for Saskatchewan Income Support (SIS) or Saskatchewan Assured Income for Disability (SAID) benefits. In Regina, Mobile Crisis Services provides services and referrals 24 hours a day, seven days a week and can be reached at 306-757-0127. People will be connected with the appropriate shelter supports in Regina that will meet their needs. During weekday business hours, people can drop in to the Ministry of Social Services’ Regina Service Centre at 2045 Broad Street for assistance.
In Saskatoon, the Salvation Army can be contacted by calling 306-244-6280. They provide emergency services and referrals 24 hours a day, seven days a week. People will be directed to appropriate shelter supports in Saskatoon that will meet their needs. During weekday business hours, people may visit the Ministry of Social Services’ Saskatoon Service Centre at 160 - 2nd Avenue South for assistance.
In Prince Albert, Prince Albert Mobile Crisis is available after hours at 306-764-1011 and will connect callers with shelter supports. YWCA after-hours emergency services for men and women at Our House (15th Street Location) are available by calling 306-922-6162.
People in other communities across the province should contact their nearest Ministry of Social Services Centre. A list of service centres is available at www.saskatchewan.ca/residents/family-and-social-support/find-a-social-services-office.
They can also contact an emergency shelter, Mobile Crisis Services (if available in their community) or the police. Members of the public are encouraged to call 911 if they see someone in immediate danger.
A list of shelters and services for people in need is available at www.sk.211.ca.