‘What about our spirituality?’: Sask. man wants new Lighthouse operator to respect Indigenous culture

A Saskatoon man has raised concerns about the Mustard Seed, an Alberta-based Christian non-profit, taking over the Lighthouse shelter and opening a new 40-bed facility in the city. The Saskatchewan government awarded the Mustard Seed a $13.9 million contract to manage the Lighthouse for the next five years. David Fineday, a homeless advocate, questions why the Mustard Seed isn’t supporting existing local organizations like Prairie Harm Reduction, instead of creating new shelters. Fineday, a Sixties Scoop survivor, also expressed concerns about the Mustard Seed’s Christian approach to helping Indigenous people, emphasizing the importance of respecting Indigenous spirituality.

James Gardiner, CEO of the Mustard Seed, responded by stating they aim to hire local, trained staff and partner with community agencies. He acknowledged the organization’s Christian roots but highlighted that cultural support networks are being developed at the Lighthouse. The Lighthouse had been embroiled in a financial scandal, prompting the Saskatchewan Housing Corporation to take ownership of the building in January 2024 and later award the Mustard Seed the management contract. Gardiner’s goal is to house 14% of residents per month and transition remaining residents to alternative housing by the end of year two. The Mustard Seed will take over operations on December 1.