REGINA - The City of Regina has been awarded $3.5 million from the federal government to help those dealing with homelessness.
In a statement sent to SaskToday, Regina Mayor Chad Bachynski said, "We are grateful for the federal government's commitment of $3.5 million in funding to support people living without homes."
The city will receive the funding over the next two years through the federal Unsheltered Homelessness and Encampments initiative. Along with Regina, 11 other municipalities across Canada, 9 in Ontario and 1 in Sask., which is Saskatoon, will also be getting funding.
Bachynski also said this will help Regina tackle one of the most pressing issues they’re facing, which is supporting vulnerable citizens.
Regina has seen an increase in homelessness, with Namerind Housing Corporation recently reporting 824 homeless people in Regina.
According to members of the Regina Street Team, those numbers could be higher, likely closer to Saskatoon’s numbers of 1,500 people experiencing homelessness.
With the additional funding, Bachynski said, "it will enable us to implement further Community Safety and Well-being plans effectively, ensuring that we can help provide immediate and meaningful support to those living without homes. From making shelter spaces permanent to funding the Regina Street Team, enhancing our response to encampments, and ensuring our vulnerable residents are connected with wrap-around services, these efforts will significantly impact our community's well-being."
