Saskatoon's homeless crisis deepens as winter nears

As Saskatchewan's colder months loom, Melissa Zimmer, founder of Bridge City Warmth, is raising alarms about the escalating homelessness crisis in Saskatoon. She reports a noticeable increase in the number of people living on the streets and stresses the urgent need for more housing and overnight warming shelters to ensure survival through the harsh winters.

Volunteers with Bridge City Warmth distribute essential supplies, food, and beverages every Thursday but are facing shortages. Zimmer highlighted the significant barriers unhoused individuals encounter when seeking accommodation, such as missing identification or difficulty securing rentals due to employment status or reliance on social services.

In response, the provincial government has committed to expanding services. The 2026-27 budget allocates up to $38.9 million for homelessness services province-wide, with $7.04 million earmarked for Saskatoon, Regina, and Prince Albert. This funding will support outreach, winter warming spaces, and drop-in services.

Saskatoon is also preparing to open a new permanent shelter on Idlylwld Drive North by November 1st. This facility will serve as a daytime and overnight drop-in center for women, providing basic amenities and access to services. While acknowledged as a positive development, Zimmer believes it will not be enough to address the full scope of the issue.