The City of Saskatoon is examining a proposal that would limit the number of emergency shelters, food banks and soup kitchens in the inner-city core, but not everyone is on board.
The idea is being pushed forward by Pat Lorje, who represents an inner-city ward on council.
Saskatoon Indian and Metis Friendship Centre Executive Director Bill Mintrim says providing accessible food services within the inner-city is a matter of providing these services where they are most needed.
“Food security is a major issue in our community and it’s an issue that’s been on the rise, with a large part due to the cost of living, the cost of rent,” he says.
Central Urban Métis Federation Incorporated President Shirley Isbister agrees social service agencies have to be located in the areas of greatest need.
“People gravitate to where they’re comfortable and, like myself, inner-city, core area, whatever you want to call it, that’s my comfort area,” she says.
The City of Saskatoon has 142 non-residential and 42 residential social service agency locations.
The proposal was discussed at a city council meeting Monday night.