GOVERNMENT FUNDS INCREASED SHELTER SERVICES IN PRINCE ALBERT

Up to 18 more emergency beds for families in crisis in Prince Albert will soon be available, thanks to $180,000 in annual funding from the Government of Saskatchewan.

For the remainder of this year, Community Resources will provide $90,000 the YWCA to develop 12 emergency beds for women and children. As well, the YWCA will provide up to six additional emergency spaces for men on a fee for service basis.

"We are committed to meeting the emergency shelter needs and issues identified by the Prince Albert community," Community Resources Minister Kevin Yates said. "The annual funding will enable the Prince Albert YWCA to provide much needed emergency shelter spaces to at-risk women and their children, and to men as well."

The beds will serve as short-term accommodation in a safe, supportive, confidential environment for women and children in crisis situations. Emergency crisis services will be available on a 24 hour a day basis. The spaces for men will provide safe, temporary accommodations as an alternative to spending the night on the streets.

"We are extremely excited with the government's response to the housing situation in Prince Albert and that we will be able to provide these additional services for women, children and men in this community," Prince Albert YWCA executive director Donna Brooks said. "It is a relief to know we will be able help families and individuals with a safe and warm place to stay, particularly as winter approaches."

"This government is committed to working with community partners such as the Prince Albert YWCA to offer temporary shelter to families and individuals in crisis," Yates said.

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For more information, contact:

Debbie Clark
Community Resources
Regina
Phone: 306-787-8689