Saskatoon shelter transition underway: Social services ministry

As shelter beds are moved away from Lighthouse Supported Living to other locations in Saskatoon, the Ministry of Social Services is working to ensure the number of spaces doesn’t drop.

According to the ministry, 30 of the Lighthouse’s emergency shelter beds are moving to the Salvation Army in October through an existing contract with the ministry, and discussions are currently happening with other community groups to move the remaining 31 beds “in the coming weeks.”

Social Services Minister Gene Makowsky announced the transition in June, saying he had significant concerns about the Lighthouse’s model. It concentrated services in one central location in Saskatoon’s downtown, leading to issues with crime.

At the same time, 42 separate Fire Safety Act violations were found at the shelter, and long-time executive director Don Windles was removed from his position after he was found to be using the charity’s funds for his own benefit, including purchasing a house for his daughter using $60,000 of the organization’s funds.

In a statement issued Friday, Makowsky said the transition will not happen overnight.

“A gradual reduction of new referrals to the Lighthouse will occur as emergency shelter spaces become operational and with client needs in mind,” Makowsky said.

“Our shared focus continues to be to support clients and carefully plan the transition so there is no disruption in the services.”

Maj. Mike Hoeft of the Salvation Army said his group is pleased to help with the move.

“We look forward to the ongoing work to address the complex issue of homelessness as we work together to find a long-term solution,” Hoeft said in a statement.

More details of the later phases of the transition will be announced as the plans are finalized, the ministry noted.