First Nations homeless shelters receive funding

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Homeless First Nations people and those at risk of becoming homeless will soon have greater access to transitional housing in Saskatchewan's major urban centres, thanks to a partnership between the Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations (FSIN), the Saskatchewan Indian Training Assessment Group Inc., five tribal councils and the federal government.

The Prince Albert Grand Council, Saskatoon Tribal Council, Yorkton Tribal Council, Battlefords Tribal Council and Regina Treaty Status Indian Services will use the funding being provided by the partners- $2,330,000 in total-to build 10 new transitional houses in Saskatoon, Regina, Prince Albert, North Battleford and Yorkton.

The new facilities will be developed based on the specific needs of those at risk in each particular city. The Saskatoon facility will provide housing and supports to homeless single mothers, people with disabilities, and young men, while the Regina facility will house homeless men, families and youth. The Prince Albert facility will providing housing and supports to homeless men and older women, the North Battleford housing to homeless men, and the Yorkton facility to homeless single young men.

Claudette Bradshaw, Minister of Labour and Federal Coordinator on Homelessness announced the funding July 8.

"The partnership we are announcing today is proof that First Nations, local community groups and government are committed to working together to have a strong, positive impact on addressing homelessness in Saskatchewan," said Bradshaw. "A wide range of factors influence homelessness and the approach being funded today will work toward ensuring that the differing needs are met."

"As First Nations we wish to address the shelter requirements of our people collectively. This joint partnership will continue to meet the need," said FSIN Vice Chief Guy Lonechild of the project. "The FSIN looks forward to strengthening our collective efforts into the future to ensure adequate shelter for our people both on and off reserve."

The new transitional facilities will providing housing for about 70 people a year that are either homeless or at risk of becoming homeless. Those staying in the transitional housing will also be referred to the appropriate community support groups in their area during their stay.

The funding provided will be used to set up the housing facilities. After the project ends May 31, 2003, the projects are expected to become self-sustaining, using rental income to cover operating costs.