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He says the goal is to ensure people have warm places to stay this winter, as Saskatoon is seeing a higher need for drop-in supports. 

Mayor Cynthia Block says having stable, year-round funding is vital to tackling the growing issue of houselessness. 

She says the money will allow the city to meet people’s needs throughout the year, rather than respond in times of crisis. 

Saskatoon had experienced a drug crisis earlier this year, causing two libraries and a safe drug consumption facility to temporarily close. 

The city had opened a temporary shelter earlier this year in response to growing needs. It’s now looking for a permanent location. 

“We know that we continue to have more people who are unhoused in our city, despite our best efforts,” Block told a news conference Thursday.

“Specifically we need to ensure people have a safe place to be, a safe place to sleep at night.”

Premier Scott Moe said at the conference there’s more work to do.

“If we live in a province where we have the economic strength that we have in Saskatchewan, I certainly want to be a part of the government that is invested in those recovery opportunities,” Moe said. 

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Sept. 18, 2025.