Saskatoon City Council Addresses Confusion Over Homeless Support Facilities
Saskatoon city council engaged in detailed discussions this week regarding a new drop-in centre planned for 130 Idylwyld Drive in the downtown core, with much of the conversation focused on clarifying the fundamental differences between drop-in centres and shelters. The confusion extended beyond council chambers, as many residents expressed similar questions about the distinctions between these two types of homeless support facilities.
Defining the Essential Differences
City manager Jeff Jorgenson provided clear definitions to help distinguish between the two services. A shelter provides beds, food, and comprehensive support services for individuals experiencing homelessness. In contrast, a drop-in centre offers more basic amenities including washrooms and typically chairs where people can sit and find temporary relief from the elements.
"A drop-in centre is even more basic than a shelter," Jorgenson explained. "There's no beds, it's just washrooms and typically a chair for people to sit and get out of the elements."
Location Challenges and Operational Details
The city faces significant challenges in finding suitable locations for both shelters and drop-in centres. Municipal officials have established specific restrictions requiring these facilities to be situated at least 250 metres away from non-private elementary schools and daycare centers. Discussions have also explored expanding drop-in centre services to potentially include laundry facilities and additional support services for those in need.
Historically, the city has used the term "warming centre" to describe these facilities during winter months, but the current goal involves operating them year-round, including throughout summer seasons.
Funding and Government Roles
Jorgenson emphasized that the provincial government provides funding to third-party service providers including the Mustard Seed, Saskatoon Tribal Council, and Salvation Army to operate both shelters and drop-in centres. The city's primary role involves collaborating with provincial authorities to identify appropriate locations, with the province expecting municipal contributions toward building costs.
Understanding Shelter Types in Saskatoon
Saskatoon currently maintains two primary types of shelters with varying service levels. Enhanced emergency shelters represent the most common type referenced by residents, including facilities such as the Emergency Wellness Centre in Fairhaven, the Salvation Army's Crossroads Residential Services shelter on Avenue C, and the Mustard Seed's Pacific Avenue shelter, which will eventually relocate to 31st Street East near the Harry Bailey Aquatic Centre.
These enhanced shelters provide beds and meals but require participants to engage in case management programs designed to prepare them for permanent housing when staying for extended periods. Salvation Army's Major Gordon Taylor has previously highlighted the need for basic shelters serving individuals who may not yet be ready for housing transition programs, a service gap that currently exists within Saskatoon's homeless support network.
The ongoing discussions reflect growing community awareness about the spectrum of services needed to address homelessness effectively, with clear distinctions between temporary respite facilities and more comprehensive shelter programs becoming increasingly important for both policymakers and concerned residents.
