The City of Regina will open an emergency shelter to those living in tents in a community park. Camp Hope at Core Community Park was established approximately six weeks ago.
Yet as winter weather approached, the push was on to find indoor accommodation. The shelter on Hamilton St. will begin operation Monday, offering 40 beds.
The shelter will be operated by the Regina Treaty Status Indian Services. ”This is the first time that we feel that an incredible community response is coming together to address one of these most terrible situations,” said Executive Director Erica Beaudin.
Mayor Sandra Masters and Beaudin contend this shelter is for temporary use, with the goal of finding permanent homes and support for individuals accessing housing.
“Over the next few days, RTSIS will be on site at the outdoor camp, to work one-on-one with residents, as we plan for a successful transition from the dangerously cold conditions of the outdoor camp into the warmth of the emergency shelter,” explained Beaudin. The shelter will operate for six months.
The Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations estimated that the majority of residents of the encampment were Indigenous.
Advocates said the camp was made as changes to provincial income support programs forced rental evictions.
The Ministry of Social Services said it would provide additional support for high-need clients in paying rent, by providing direct payment of rent, security deposits and utilities.
(Screenshot of FSIN representatives at Camp Hope Nov. 1)