Saskatchewan plans to invest up to $20 million over the next three years to expand supports for a growing homeless population, Social Services Minister Terry Jenson announced alongside Regina Mayor Chad Bachynski. The funding will increase the Provincial Approach To Homelessness (PATH) program, launched in 2023 with $40.3 million. Jenson said allocations will vary by municipality and focus on connecting people with outreach workers, shelters, and other services. Regina will receive $1.1 million, which Bachynski said will be used to enhance warming spaces and address urgent needs while longer-term solutions are developed.
Opposition critic Brent Blakley argued the funding is insufficient amid worsening homelessness and criticized the province for relying on substandard emergency housing, such as the bedbug-infested Coachman Motor Inn. He urged the government to open vacant Saskatchewan Housing units instead of spending money on temporary accommodations.
Of the new funding, $4 million will add up to 40 emergency shelter beds, and another $4 million will create up to 60 supportive housing spaces and expand trusteeship services. Natasha Kennedy of Regina Treaty Status Service, which operates the New Beginnings Emergency Shelter, said the investments support essential 24/7 services that provide warmth, meals, and help navigating social systems.
Read the full story on CBC: