Neighbourhood Information Sessions for proposed Emergency Residential Shelter on Central Avenue postponed

The City of Saskatoon and Government of Saskatchewan continue to work collaboratively on the final details to prepare for the 30-space emergency shelter to be located at former Fire Station #5 (421 Central Avenue).

All partners know that the way the shelter will operate is one of the most important questions on the minds of residents and business owners and recognize the need to get the right plan in place before the shelter becomes operational.

Much progress has been made on developing an integrated plan – but it requires more time to ensure the best outcomes for the entire community and to meet the expectations of Sutherland residents, businesses and workplaces.

The service provider selected by the Government of Saskatchewan – the Mustard Seed -- has shared its operational plans with all partners to run an enhanced shelter model. The Mustard Seed is an established service provider who will be working in Saskatoon for the first time.

An enhanced emergency shelter provides clients with access to the shelter 24 hours per day, seven days per week. Clients are also provided three meals per day, case planning and access to wrap-around supports to address wellness and cultural needs, with assistance in connecting to services such as financial supports and help to transition to appropriate housing along the housing continuum. The enhanced shelter will also be smaller in scale to other shelters in Saskatoon.

The location of the second temporary 30-space shelter in Saskatoon is still being determined.

The Neighbourhood Information Sessions scheduled for February 13 (virtual) and February 15 (at Sutherland Hall) related to the shelter discussion will be postponed, as well as the reports that were being planned for presentation at the February 28 meetings of City Council.

Neighbourhood Information Sessions will be rescheduled within the month and the public will be notified on saskatoon.ca/shelterspaces and on the City’s social media channels with revised dates when they are available.

The City thanks Sutherland residents and businesses for their patience in allowing all the various organizations necessary time to complete the integrated operating and safety plan work.