Encampments
What is an encampment?
An encampment is any area where an individual or a group of people live unhoused together, often in tents or other temporary shelters.
In some circumstances, encampments can pose a level of risk to people staying in the encampment as well as the surrounding community. Risks include biohazards, needles, garbage, unsafe heating sources, fire and proximity to schools or playgrounds.
Reporting encampments
Please do not approach an encampment or the individuals in a temporary shelter. If you see someone living in unsafe outdoor living conditions, please contact the Service Saskatoon 24hr Customer Care Centre at 306-975-2476 to have your report added to the queue. Current response times for the encampment team is 48 hours.
An organized response
The Saskatoon Fire Department (SFD) recognizes homelessness is a complex issue which requires a whole-community response. SFD and partnering agencies have organized a proactive response to manage life safety and health issues related to those who are unhoused. Together, the group is working to provide emergency wrap-around resources to unhoused individuals including:
- Food
- Mental health and/or addiction support
- Access to Elders
- Trauma Support Services
- Safe & healthy emergency shelter
- Support in accessing Ministry of Social Services programs
How to help
SFD works with partnering agencies to provide support to individuals who are unhoused. If residents wish to make a donation, they are encouraged to connect with the organizations listed below.
Items of most benefit include:
- toques
- mitts
- jackets
- socks
- underwear
- pants
- shoes/boots
- scarfs
- blankets
- shampoo (individual)
- soap
- toothbrushes
- toothpaste
- deodorant
- women and children items (*YWCA only)
Material donations can be dropped off at:
Salvation Army
339 Avenue C South
306-244-6280
YWCA
510-25th Street East
306-986-2870