Keeping People Warm This Winter

Released on November 19, 2018

The Government of Saskatchewan, along with its community partners, is once again launching its Cold Weather Strategy to ensure that every Saskatchewan resident is safe and warm this winter.

“Saskatchewan winters can be dangerous for people who don’t have shelter or a home,” Social Services Minister Paul Merriman said.  “We encourage anyone who finds themselves without shelter to contact the Ministry of Social Services, our community partners or 911 for help.  We will find them a warm, safe place to stay.”

“With the help of our community partners, 1,552 youth, adults and families were safe last winter,” Regina Mobile Crisis Executive Director John McFadyen said.  “Homelessness puts those who are the most vulnerable at risk during winter in Saskatchewan.  Since 2012, Regina’s Cold Weather Strategy has ensured safe temporary shelter is available.”

“Saskatchewan winters can be difficult and challenging at the best of times, but for those who may be experiencing homelessness they can be outright dangerous,” Salvation Army Major Mike Hoeft said.  “The cold weather strategy creates a process whereby no one is without a safe, warm place to stay.  We encourage people who are at risk to make contact with our office day or night - we are here to help.”

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 by 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.

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For more information, contact:

Ashley Green
Social Services
Regina
Phone: 306-787-0531
Email: ashley.green2@gov.sk.ca

Major Mike Hoeft
Salvation Army
Regina
Phone: 306-921-4706 
Email: Mike_Hoeft@can.salvationarmy.org

John McFadyen
Regina Mobile Crisis Services
Regina
Phone: 306-757-7810
Email: info@mcsregina.ca