The City of Prince Albert will have four public meetings to discuss the best location for a permanent shelter for homeless people. (submitted)

By Susan McNeil

Shelter meetings

Public consultation on shelter location to start next week

Jan 6, 2025 | 12:25 PM

Residents of Prince Albert will soon have an opportunity to learn more and give their input on the best location for a homeless shelter in the city.

The YWCA has been trying to find a permanent spot for four years and met with resistance in every location they chose. One of the first decisions of the newly elected council was to hold four public meetings to gather input from across the board.

“It is clear that finding a location for a permanent shelter location is a priority for our community,” said Mayor Bill Powalinsky. “We need broad consultation to ensure we are hearing all points of view before we make a final decision.”

The first meeting will be January 15 at the Chez Leach Lounge in the Art Hauser.

That will be followed by a meeting at the Midtown Community club on January 20 and a third meeting the following day at the Alfred Jenkins Field House.

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The final meeting will be held at the PAGC Urban Services location near the mall.

All will start at 5:30 and conclude at 7:30 pm.

Each workshop will have a presentation from the City of Prince Albert and the YWCA as well as a panel of community stakeholders that can answer questions.

Roundtables will be included to get feedback from participants.

“With good information, we can ensure we have a good plan to support the shelter once a final location is determined. I encourage all residents to consider taking part in this opportunity,” Powalinsky said.

There has not been much dispute that the city needs a location for its homeless population – last estimated at more than 150 people – but no neighbourhood has been willing to accept it.

The city hopes with better information, a good choice can be made.

Shelters do more than provide a place to sleep for people who are homeless. They also get support for mental health issues, addictions and information on how to find housing that meets their needs.

The goal of the shelter to support individuals to find dignity, self-esteem, and help to find long term housing, said the city.

For those who are unable to attend but would like to provide input, an online survey will be prepared and made available once finalized.

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susan.mcneil@pattisonmedia.com

On BlueSky: @susanmcneil.bsky.social