SASKATOON — The Ministry of Social Services has announced the start of the transition of emergency shelter spaces away from The Lighthouse in Saskatoon.
They confirmed Friday that starting this month, 30 out of 61 emergency spaces at The Lighthouse are transitioning to Salvation Army, through an existing contract with the Ministry of Social Services.
The province also is reporting that discussions are under way with other community partners to transition the remaining 31 spaces. Once those are finalized details are expected to be made public.
The province had announced plans in June to transition its government-funded services out of Lighthouse Supported Living after the organization’s well-publicized issues with management and governance.
"A gradual reduction of new referrals to Lighthouse will occur as emergency shelter spaces become operational and with client needs in mind," Social Services Minister Gene Makowsky said in a news release. "Our shared focus continues to be to support clients and carefully plan the transition so there is no disruption in service."
"The Salvation Army is pleased to partner with the Ministry of Social Services to increase our short-term emergency shelter spaces in the city of Saskatoon," Salvation Army Major Mike Hoeft said in a statement. "We look forward to the ongoing work to address the complex issue of homelessness as we work together to find a long-term solution."
