Warm And Safe Shelter Is Available To Everyone This Winter

Released on October 28, 2021

With cold weather on its way, the Government of Saskatchewan is reminding all residents that everyone has access to safe, warm shelter during the winter months through the Cold Weather Strategy.

The Ministry of Social Services is once again working with community partners to ensure all people have a safe and warm place to stay during cold weather. Spaces are available in shelters across the province, and people who live in communities without shelters will have access to hotels.

"Saskatchewan winters are dangerous for those without a home or access to shelter," Social Services Minister Lori Carr said. "That is why our government continues to work with our community partners across the province to make sure everyone in need of shelter has a warm and safe place to stay, no matter where they live or when they need help."

Saskatoon Housing Initiatives Partnership works with community partners, like The Salvation Army, and the province to keep people safe in Saskatoon during cold weather. These organizations communicate daily when the weather gets cold to identify any pressures in meeting service demands and to ensure people in need receive emergency services 24 hours per day, seven days a week. During weekday business hours, people in need of assistance can also visit the Ministry of Social Services' Saskatoon Service Centre at 160 - 2nd Avenue South.

The City of Regina works with community partners and the Province to connect people in need to appropriate shelter supports 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Mobile Crisis Regina provides daily updates on shelter space and availability on their website at mobilecrisis.ca. During weekday business hours, people in need of assistance can also visit the Ministry of Social Services' Regina Service Centre at 2045 Broad Street. 

“Saskatchewan winters can be harsh, especially for those without a safe, warm place to stay,” Salvation Army Major Mike Hoeft said. “The Salvation Army is committed to helping those who find themselves in need all year long, and recognize the cold days of winter can be especially critical to offer timely assistance. Emergency assistance can be found at our emergency shelters in Regina and Saskatoon or through our local ministries scattered throughout the province. If you need help please reach out, we are here to help. Call Emergency After Hours 306-244-6280 or visit salvationarmy.ca to find local contact information.”

YWCA Prince Albert operates a shelter that offers people in need a warm place to stay. People can contact YWCA Prince Albert after hours by calling 306-764-1011 to get connected to shelter supports.

People needing shelter in other communities across the province should contact their nearest Ministry of Social Services office. A list of service centres is available at https://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. People in need of financial help can apply for Saskatchewan Income Support or Saskatchewan Assured Income for Disability benefits.

Members of the public should call 911 if they see someone in need. A full list of shelters and services for people in need is available at www.sk.211.ca.

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