REGINA, Sask. — More than $2 million in provincial funding could bolster Regina's extreme-weather spaces and community outreach, but councillors say it is only a small step toward addressing homelessness.
On Wednesday, Regina’s executive committee discussed more than $2 million in pending funding from the provincial government for extreme-weather spaces and a new community outreach team for 2026-27.
“This is a sign that we're starting down a path of a better relationship with the provincial government,” noted Ward 3 Coun. David Froh.
Included in the funding agreement is $700,000 for the Nēwo Yōtina Friendship Centre: Seven Fires extreme-weather space, $398,000 for All Nations Hope: Awasiw, $550,000 for Carmichael Outreach and roughly $390,000 for a new community outreach team. This team will be replacing the Regina Street Team, which ceased operations as of Sept. 1.
But warming spaces are not a permanent housing solution to address the hundreds currently occupying encampments at city parks, noted Froh.
“We need to do more. All you have to do is walk around the streets of Regina to see that a lot of our neighbours are suffering, and what we need is greater housing, wraparound holistic support, and barrier-free access.”
During his five minutes to speak at the executive committee, Froh said he felt the city was receiving pennies instead of material dollars.
The city acknowledged it would take $110 million to end homelessness, build new homes, provide case management and provide a safer community. City staff also admitted there isn’t currently enough housing support and space to resolve the current population experiencing homelessness in the city.
Froh said a large portion of that undertaking relies on help from the federal and provincial governments, which have more resources at their disposal.
“The provincial government and the federal government have the greatest role to play in the resources to actually address houselessness, mental health, and addiction. They have more tools in their toolbox.”
During his speaking time, Mayor Chad Bachynski said more long-term solutions are needed, while expressing satisfaction with the discussions held with the province.
“The minister [of social services] is open to the dialogue, and I think we are finally starting to speak the same language and really hit the mark to indicate where those spaces are that we need.”
The report will go to council for final approval at the Sept. 9 meeting.
Ward 6 Coun. Victoria Flores is expected to introduce an amendment at next week’s meeting for a yearly report on what is working well for the homeless and where the city can improve.
More details are also expected in the coming weeks on the city’s new community outreach team, including the operator.
