Prairie Harm Reduction, a safe-consumption site and drop-in center, is facing a funding crisis that will result in a reduction of evening hours starting on May 1. The facility has been open from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. every day, but will now close no later than 4 p.m. due to a lack of financial support. Executive director Kayla DeMong highlighted the increased demand for services, with roughly 200 more individuals accessing the site, requiring additional staff. She expressed concerns over the lack of support for those overdosing outside the building during the evening hours when the facility is closed.
The drop-in center was originally designed to accommodate around 30 individuals, but DeMong noted that there are now 70 to 80 people utilizing the space at any given time. She emphasized the need for additional resources to handle the increased volume of individuals, both for day and evening staff. Despite the growing demand for services, the drop-in center has never received funding from the provincial budget. DeMong criticized the government for failing to address the needs of the homeless population and called for more financial support to keep people alive and provide essential services.
With a funding shortfall of $335,000, Prairie Harm Reduction is struggling to meet the demand for its services. DeMong highlighted the critical role that the facility plays in the community, serving as the only public washroom and evening resource for many individuals. She emphasized the importance of finding sustainable funding sources to ensure the continued operation of the drop-in center. Despite the financial challenges, the organization is committed to seeking support through fundraising efforts and donations to keep the facility running.
DeMong expressed concerns about the increasing number of overdoses during the evening hours in Saskatoon, with staff often responding to multiple scenes outside the building when the facility is closed. She stressed the importance of having support available to prevent overdoses and provide assistance to those in need. The executive director called on the provincial government to step in and address the funding crisis facing Prairie Harm Reduction, emphasizing the need for immediate action to support the homeless population and keep individuals safe.
As Prairie Harm Reduction faces a funding shortfall and reduced operating hours, the organization is working to find alternative sources of support to continue providing essential services to the community. DeMong highlighted the dedication of the staff and the critical role that the drop-in center plays in supporting individuals in need. With a focus on keeping people alive and addressing the immediate needs of the homeless population, Prairie Harm Reduction is calling on the government to provide additional funding and resources to ensure the well-being of vulnerable individuals. Global News has reached out to the provincial government for comment on the funding crisis facing Prairie Harm Reduction.
