Shelter Spaces Still Available During Extreme Cold Snap

Released on January 15, 2020

With the extreme cold warnings across the province, the Government of Saskatchewan and its community partners want to remind residents of the Cold Weather Strategy to ensure that everyone has a safe and warm place to sleep.

“These extreme temperatures are dangerous for those spending time outside, especially for people who don’t have shelter or a home,” Social Services Minister Paul Merriman said.  “Shelter spaces are still available across the province and 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.”

“Mobile Crisis Services collaborates with over a dozen community partners to ensure that no one is left out in the cold,” Mobile Crisis Services Executive Director John McFadyen said.  “If you are aware of anyone that may be at risk, don’t hesitate to call.  We have toques, mitts and socks available for those in need, thanks to donations from the community.”

“With the harsh winter weather our province experiences it is critical that everyone has a warm, safe place to stay,” Salvation Army Major Mike Hoeft said.  “In cooperation with many other community partners The Salvation Army stands ready to help all citizens of Saskatchewan stay safe this winter.”

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 into 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. 

Additionally, motorists are advised to stay with their vehicle if they are experiencing car trouble in extreme cold.  It is much safer to stay with your vehicle than risk walking for help.

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For more information, contact:

Leya Moore
Social Services
Regina
Phone: 306-787-3610
Email: leya.moore@gov.sk.ca

Major Mike Hoeft
Salvation Army
Saskatoon
Phone: 306-757-1552
Email: Mike_Hoeft@can.salvationarmy.org
Cell: 306-921-4706

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