As of January 30, a new temporary homeless shelter will be open in Regina.
The Government of Saskatchewan, the City of Regina, Regina Treaty/Status Indian Services (RT/SIS), and The Nest Health Centre are collaborating on the initiative after the RT/SIS received $400,000 in operational funding from the provincial government.
The city will lease the temporary winter shelter through The Nest Health Centre and it will be managed and operated by RT/SIS.
“We are committed to our meaningful and continued partnerships with the Government of Saskatchewan and the City of Regina. Further, we are very excited about our partnership with The Nest Health Centre as they take on their role as contributing community members by their professional service,” says Erica Beaudin, Executive Director of RT/SIS.
The temporary shelter will help with the existing capacity issues at other shelters in the city and it’s being seen as a short-term solution as the city continues to explore long-term solutions.
There will be 40 spaces available and professional wrap-around services to support the people who will use the shelter will be available on-site.
The City is providing furniture and supplies, as well as coordinating minor renovations to the main floor to create a suitable shelter space.
“Working with community partners to improve safety and well-being for all residents is a priority for the City of Regina,” says Mayor Sandra Masters.
“The new temporary winter shelter is a great example of different levels of government and the non-profit and private sectors working together to address a community issue.”
The shelter will be at the former YMCA building. The new owners are reportedly enthusiastic about providing a temporary space that aligns with the vision for The Nest Health Centre as a new, multifaceted and collaborative community centre focused on healthcare and wellness.
Once the shelter opens, the City will pause the operation of the warming bus.
