Emergency Services, community stakeholders and clients from the Saskatoon Tribal Council’s Emergency Wellness Centre met today (Tues) to talk about the rise in mental health and addictions challenges, which has led to an increase in homelessness. The idea is to strategize on ways to support people in their journey, to give them a better chance at success.

The Saskatoon Fire Department’s Assistant Chief, Yvonne Raymer, says more safe and adequate housing is needed, along with the support to help people recover. When the Fire Department interacts with people dealing with challenges, in encampments or on the street, they treat them the same way they would treat anyone whose house had burned down or any other traumatic event. The goal is to talk with them, build relationships, and find out if they would be willing to accept some help, but Raymer adds that not everyone is ready, because it can be very overwhelming for those deep in addiction to take the next step.

To date this year, about 40 per cent of those they have spoken with have accepted the help. Not including any other emergency services, the Saskatoon Fire Department had 512 interactions with homeless people last year and this year after six months, there have already been 290.

The event was organized by the Greater Saskatoon Chamber of Commerce and Discover Saskatoon.