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Weblog:
News from the Salvation Army Community Centre
Salvation Army Week of Compassion for Haiti
Dear Friends, The Salvation Army is embarking on a special fundraising event to help the victims of the earthquake in Haiti. From February 1-6, the Salvation Army kettles – normally seen during our annual Christmas campaigns – will be out at shopping malls and stores across Saskatoon. We need volunteers to make this happen. If you have wondered how to directly help the millions of people affected by the earthquake’s destruction, this is your chance. Volunteer for a kettle shift! 100% of donations go to The Salvation Army Haiti Earthquake Disaster Relief Fund. The fund provides medicine and medical treatment, food, purified drinking water, shelter, and much, much more. More than 700 Salvation Army personnel are providing relief in Haiti right now, and many more will follow. Please consider playing a role in The Salvation Army’s Haiti Disaster Relief. Call 242-6833, extension 239. A few hours of your time goes a long way towards helping the people of Haiti right now. Labels: Donate, Emergency Disaster Services, Saskatoon
The bells are ringing at Stonegate Shopping Centre this Christmas.
This was released this morning to media outlets in Saskatoon. Wal-Mart and The Brick welcomed Salvation Army Christmas kettles into their Stonegate stores as of Thursday evening. Both stores came on board after hearing that The Salvation Army’s kettle donations have been slower than expected this year. “We want to thank our generous new partners for answering the call,” says Major Henri Regamey from The Salvation Army. “We also want to thank Tony Roma’s for being the first on board at Stonegate.” Both Tony Roma locations have “counter kettles,” unmanned kettles that sit at checkout counters during the holiday season. The Salvation Army is thrilled to welcome these new partners. With their help, we will continue to provide hope to the most vulnerable in Saskatoon at Christmas and throughout the year. With two new kettle locations and a week to go until Christmas, bell ringers are urgently needed. Volunteers can call Carol at 242-6833. For more information, please contact: Jackie Kripki, Communications Specialist for Northern Saskatchewan , at (cell) 306-371-5402 OR Captain Rhonda Smith at (office) 306-242-6833 or (cell) 306-270-1728 The Salvation Army is an international Christian organization that began its work in Canada in 1882 and has grown to become the largest non-governmental direct provider of social services in the country. We give hope and support to vulnerable people today and everyday in 400 communities across Canada and 118 countries. The Salvation Army Christmas Kettles provide families with Christmas hampers that include food for the holidays and toys for the children. The kettles also fund our many year-round support programs, such as counseling, rehabilitation, and family programming. Labels: Christmas, Media Releases, Saskatoon
2009 Santa Claus Parade Photos
Get the flash player here: http://www.adobe.com/flashplayer The Salvation Army's entry in the 2009 Santa Claus Parade. Thanks to everyone who made the day a great success! Labels: Christmas, Saskatoon
Salvation Army Annual Christmas Dinner Photos
I know I am late posting these but thanks to everyone who made the 2009 Annual Salvation Army Community Christmas Dinner a big success. I did manage to take some photos and you can see the photoset here or check out the gallery below. Get the flash player here: http://www.adobe.com/flashplayer Labels: Christmas, Life at the Centre, Saskatoon, winter
Winter in Saskatoon
If you are in Saskatoon right now, you just survived a really cold snap and even though it has warmed up quite a bit, it is still cold outside.
Many people phone and e-mail and ask what do we do when it gets this cold. Well we do a bunch of things to make sure that no one is left out in the cold.
- During the day we open our lounge up for clients so they can stay out of the cold. While normally we close down the place for cleaning during the day, when it is this cold, it stays open all day so guys do not have to go outside. As soon as the dorms and washrooms are cleaned, we open all of them back up for the men so they can have some more space to relax, catch up on some sleep, or read.
- People naturally assume that we get a lot busier when it gets this cold but generally it is a little quieter (people tend to hunker down and stay put when it is this cold). If we do get busier, we would make available our entire building rather than refuse someone (we hate refusing anyone on the basis of space at the best of times but in the winter we make sure that no one is going to freeze). Years ago I took a tour of an old Soviet submarine. It had bunks on the engines and the torpedoes. While the Centre doesn't have torpedoes, we will put a mattress and a bunk anywhere if it means that no one is left out in the cold. If we do run out of room, we put clients up in local hotels.
- We work with Larson House and the Saskatoon City Police to ensure people who are intoxicated or high are taken care of if they do wander into our place. Speaking of the Saskatoon City Police, officers do bring in people that do not have shelter or who have been found in shelter that isn't suitable for the weather outside. We warm them up, give them suitable winter gear, and give them a safe place to sleep. Outside of the city limits, the local RCMP does the same thing with hitchhikers. They bring them down and we help them out.
- Our Clothing Cave is generally open Monday, Wednesday, and Friday but in cold weather we outfit people any time they need it. At both of our reception areas we have mitts, toques, scarves, socks, and thanks to the generous donations of the people of Saskatoon.
- While this doesn't happen just because it is really cold out, once the temperature starts to dip a bit, the kitchen staff bring out the porridge and oat meal. Wilfred Brimley would be proud. When it is cold like this the kitchen tends to heap up the portions and serves bigger meals to compensate for the calories burned to stay warm.
Despite our best efforts, there are still people choosing to be outside this winter. We know many of them through their past stays with us or through our drop in programs during the day and on the weekend evenings. At every opportunity we invite them to come and stay with us or we work at finding other sleeping arrangements for them if we are not their best option. It’s an ongoing process but one we continue to ensure that those who are in the cold have safe and warm accommodations during our winter. Even for those who refuse our offers of warmth, we provide blankets, warm (or warmer) clothing and winter gear to help them keep warm. If you are looking for a way to help, there are a couple things you can do to make a difference. - Donate. Whether it be a financial donation or if you have a warm winter jacket, socks, toques, gloves, men's underwear (and long underwear) or a scarf, it all helps out. You can drop off a donation at 339 Avenue C South anytime, day or night. When it is this cold we give out the stuff as soon as it comes in so whatever you can give, our clients appreciate tremendously.
- Direct people panhandling or who are in need to us. At this temperature we do not turn anyone away and we work with the Ministry of Social Services to ensure all of their essential needs are met. A warm bed and three and a half meals a day are provided (we provide a filling snack at night as well). If the person needs a different agency or more help then we can offer, we keep them safe, warm, and comfortable while we arrange whatever help is needed.
- Help spread the news about what we do. Despite being here for over 100 years, some people don't know that there is a men's hostel in town or that we help women in emergency need. We work hard at getting the word out but we can always use your help as well.
Labels: homeless, Life at the Centre, Residential Services, Riversdale, Saskatoon, urban, winter
Online Christmas Hamper Applications
Nomadic Dwellings
This is being hosted by our neighbors at the aka gallery. 
Performances throughout Saskatoon:
October 20th to 23rd, 2009 Opening with artists in attendance:
October 23rd at 7pm Quebec-based activist art group Folie/Culture, presents the architectural project Nomadic Dwellings in Saskatoon beginning October 20th, 2009. Began in 2007, the project calls on architects and artists to conceive nomadic dwellings for itinerants. The shelters had to be designed for one person, with materials that were easily found in Canada, inexpensive, and recyclable if possible. They also had to be reusable and easy to set up by one person alone.
Between October 20th and October 23rd, the artists involved will set up and display the works in several highly visible locations throughout the city. In the current climate of myopic boosterism for Saskatoon’s bourgeoning economy, this exhibition serves as a reminder of the social reality of itinerancy. As vacancy rates fall and rents increase, the most vulnerable among us fall through the cracks and are faced with the prospect of living without shelter. While the project is not intended as a solution to the problem of homelessness, it does aim to increase awareness of the issue. Placing the architectural act in the everyday suggests a discomfiting social encounter that architects do not often rub up against. The paradoxical meeting of architecture and itinerancy reveals the degree of interconnectedness between these seemingly disparate sites within the social body. Since 1984, Folie/Culture has facilitated contemporary art projects with a specific focus on awareness building in mental health. They encourage the work of artists who intervene in the field of social perceptions, engaging a public who may not otherwise encounter contemporary art. Labels: homeless, poverty, Saskatoon, Upcoming Events
Fall Supper at the Salvation Army Community Centre
Thank You Sleep Country!
A special thanks to Sleep Country for the donation of school supplies to the Centre. The supplies were distributed to families who needed a little extra help in getting their children ready for back to school. While Sleep Country has made a big difference in Saskatoon, this is a national campaign as well  From August 1-31, 2009, The Salvation is partnering with Sleep Country Canada in its annual Backpacks for Kids program. The program supports children in grades one through seven who can’t afford new school supplies.
Canadians are encouraged to drop off new backpacks filled with school supplies at local Sleep Country stores. Donations will be distributed to local children through The Salvation Army and KidsFest, a non-profit organization dedicated to helping young Canadians who live at or below the poverty line. Since the Backpack for Kids program began in 2005, and with the generous support of the public, more than 20,000 backpacks filled with supplies have to given to children in need. Labels: Family Services, Saskatoon
New public library in Riversdale
 All of us at the Centre are excited that there is a new library in Riversdale. We got this report in an e-mail from city counselor Darren Hill.
I am writing with some exciting news about a great new facility on 20th Street. Yesterday I attended the grand opening of the new library at 20th Street and Avenue K South. This marks the first time in over 50 years that there has been a library in Riversdale. The new library is wheelchair accessible, and features books in several languages, including Ukrainian, German, French, Vietnamese, Mandarin and Urdu. CD's and DVD's are also available for borrowing, and a Family Story Time each Thursday morning at 10:30 will be a wonderful feature of the ongoing programming. You can get to the library on either the #1 or #2 bus routes. For more information on all the great things at the library, please call 975-7508. Even though the library opened officially today, people have been using it already and I hear that it is so popular that the librarians are already thinking it should have been bigger! Do drop in and check it out. Labels: Riversdale, Saskatoon
Re-Zoning Approved!
The Salvation Army got approval from Saskatoon’s City Council tonight to rezone 341 Avenue T South to zoning that allow a short term emergency women’s shelter to be opened there. This is a significant step for the Centre’s goals of having a safe place for women and children to go to when they are in crisis. Thanks to all of the staff, officers, our realtor, city councilors, city employees, the Homelessness Partnering Strategy, and our architect Ken Wilson for getting us this far. After we get our building permits, we hope to be open by the time winter hits in 2009. If you have any questions, feel free to contact Captain Rhonda Smith at rhonda_smith@can.salvationarmy.org or the Residential Coordinator, Jordon Cooper jordon.cooper@salvationarmysaskatoon.org. Both can be reached via phone at 306.244.6833. Labels: homeless, poverty, Residential Services, Saskatoon, Women's Shelter
The 2009 Salvation Army Toy Run
All Motorcycles Welcome Shiny bikes, revving motors and Santa…in September? Once again Saskatoon’s motorcycling community is working together to collect toys for The Salvation Army’s Christmas Toy Hampers. All interested motorcycle enthusiasts are invited to participate and help to make this the biggest and best Toy Run ever. Participant Admission: A new, unwrapped toy for The Salvation Army Family Christmas Assistance Program, or monetary donation. Saturday, September 12, 2009 Where: Prairieland Park (rain or shine) at the Marquis Downs Cook Shack Pancake Breakfast: 8:00 – 11:00 a.m. Ride begins at 11:00 a.m. and leaves the cook shack and goes to the Saskatoon Inn. 
Enjoy a BBQ at the Saskatoon Inn after the ride. If you have any questions, talk to Major Henri at 242-6833 (office) or 260-9057 (cell). You can also contact him via email at henri_regamey@can.salvationarmy.org. Labels: Christmas, Saskatoon, Upcoming Events, urban, winter
Women's Shelter Re-Zoning Meeting
On June 16th, the Salvation Army, the City of Saskatoon, and the citizens of Pleasant Hill got together to discuss our desire for a zoning change to allow us to purchase and open an emergency shelter for women and children who are homeless in Saskatoon.
Along the way, there was a mis-communication between the City and Pleasant Hill School and the school was locked when everyone got there. Luckily it was a perfect evening to sit outside and talk so instead of using the school's auditorium, we used the front lawn. The result was we all got to enjoy the late spring weather and no one can accuse us of meeting behind closed doors!
If you missed the meeting or have any questions about the project, please don't hesitate to contact Captain Rhonda Smith at the Centre via phone (242.6833), e-mail, or in drop by in person.
 Labels: Family Services, Pleasant Hill, Residential Services, Saskatoon, Women's Shelter
Community Event: Garage Sale and Free Clothing at St. Vincent of Lerins Orthodox Church
Restaurant Inspections
With a fair amount of fanfare, the Government of Saskatchewan has released their Saskatchewan Restaurant Inspection Reports. Like all places that serve food in Saskatoon and area, the Salvation Army’s kitchen and dining room is regularly inspected as is our Emergency Response Vehicle. You can go online and check out what the reports say or you can take our word for it. We are quite proud at how clean our kitchen at the Centre is kept and the report specifies that there are no issues with either one of our food service areas. Labels: Food Services, Life at the Centre, Saskatoon
The Salvation Army Community Centre and “wet shelters”
Earlier this week a story was published on CBC Saskatchewan that addressed a recent report (PDF) published by the Saskatoon Indian and Metis Friendship Centre, interviewed 44 people who were having trouble finding housing.. Captain Rhonda Smith and I sat down with a reporter from CBC Radio and we addressed several of the issues that came up in the report that were relevant to our role as a shelter for men in Saskatoon. When the story did come out, it focused on some comments I made about wet shelters. The quotes made it look like we as a Centre were engaged in discussions about a wet shelter which is not accurate and was never the intent of my answer. The greater context of the answer made it clear that the Salvation Army Community Centre is a drug and alcohol free shelter and as a “dry shelter”, we were the wrong people to ask about the effectiveness of wet shelters. I suggested that the people to talk to about wet shelters were the Saskatoon Health Region and more specifically Larson House. When the story was published, I was disappointed that the article did not share the broader context of our conversation and it gave the impression that we were actively engaged in discussions about a wet shelter in Saskatoon when we are not. For over 100 years in Saskatoon, the Salvation Army has been providing assistance to people with a variety of social and spiritual needs. The Salvation Army Community Centre in Saskatoon continues this practice by offering a alcohol and drug free environment for the community to take come to and receive food, shelter, emergency services, budget management, and spiritual care. Clients who do choose to drink or consume drugs are referred to Larson House or in the case of extreme intoxication, are picked up by the Saskatoon City Police (or if it is in their best medical interests, we call an ambulance and they are given medical care). While the vast majority of the 18,000+ beds we served up in 2008 were used by men wanting a drug and alcohol free shelter, some of our clients are determined to continue to consume drugs and alcohol on a consistent basis. For those clients we work with them in finding other places to reside and in extreme cases, we ask that they do find other places to reside other than our facility for the safety of our staff and other clients. If you have any questions about this or any other manner, don’t hesitate to call the Centre at 306.242.6833 or e-mail jordon.cooper@salvationarmysaskatoon.org or our Executive Director at rhonda_smith@can.salvationarmy.org. Labels: homeless, Life at the Centre, Residential Services, Saskatoon
Residential Services Job Opening
The Salvation Army Garage Sale and Barbecue
Curbing prostitution in Saskatoon
The current issue of the Salvationist has an article on how the Saskatoon Community Centre is curbing prostitution in Saskatoon by holding regular John Schools.  Albert Brown, correctional coordinator for The Salvation Army in Saskatoon, doesn’t have the easiest job in the world. He runs a rehabilitation course for clients of prostitutes, also known as “johns.”
“I have one day to help the men get past their denial,” says Brown, “and make them see the harm they are causing to prostitutes, their families, the community and themselves.” Popularly known as “John School,” the alternative measures program originated in 2000 and more than 360 have taken the course. Since then, only five are known to have re-offended. “If the men don’t take ownership of their issues, they’ll be sent back to court to be dealt with,” states Brown. “Failure is not an option.” The articles describes John School like this: Police exhibit weapons confiscated from prostitutes. Former sex trade workers talk about sordid life on the streets and community health workers warn of the diseases that can be caught. None of the stories are pretty. There is no glamour to prostitution and they want to dissuade the men from any such notion. Community residents explain what it’s like to live in a red-light area, where women can’t walk down the street without being accosted. They relate how backyards are routinely checked for used needles or condoms before children can go out and play. After that, a former john discusses how he got into trouble, the implications that had for his family and how he’s struggled to put his life back together. The most emotional part of the day follows when a couple speaks about how their daughter met a man at a local fair. Within days, she was working the streets. The parents’ nightmare lasted for years, never knowing if she was safe. Despite their love and best efforts, the daughter disappeared and her body was found a couple of years later. Finally, there’s a debriefing where the men each stand in turn and explain the impact the session has had. By the end of the program, they’re emotionally exhausted and many are ready to change their harmful behaviour. Labels: Correctional Services, Saskatoon
Salvation Army Emergency Shelter for Women and Children
Back in early 2008, the Salvation Army Community Centre in Saskatoon recognized the need for an emergency women and children's shelter in Saskatoon. The YWCA was constantly full and a booming Saskatoon economy meant that it was harder and harder to find emergency accommodations in Saskatoon. In 2008 alone, the Salvation Army Emergency After Hours helped women and children in crisis with 2509 hotel rooms. After a lot of hard work with the Homelessness Partnering Strategy, the Government of Saskatchewan, and other agencies, we secured capital and operational funding for the project. Since the process started a year ago we have been looking almost daily for property that would best serve women and children in need. The same conditions that made the need so visible (the booming economy and real estate market) made it hard to find an appropriate location but we finally found one that will allow to house up to ten families a night on an emergency basis. Pending a successful rezoning, the project will be open to women and families in the spring of 2009. Thanks to the Homelessness Partnering Strategy, the Ministry of Social Services, and other individuals and agencies that have helped us get this far. If you have any comments, questions, or concerns, please contact Jordon Cooper (Residential Coordinator) or Captain Rhonda Smith (Executive Director). Both can be reached at 242.6833. Labels: homeless, Residential Services, Saskatoon
Bethany Home
Bethany Home has a new website. For those of you who don’t know Bethany Home is: The Salvation Army commenced it's women's social services in Saskatoon in 1938 with the opening of the Bethany Home and Hospital for single mothers. Over the years the hospital role was modified and finally in 1975, the hospital section was closed. Bethany Home now opens its doors to young children and teenagers who have no safe home to live in. For contact information, history, and photos, make sure you check out their new site. Technorati Tags: Bethany HomeLabels: Saskatoon
By the numbers
The numbers below give you an idea of what kind of year the Salvation Army Community Centre had in 2008. Our 2007 stats - 6638 beds used
- 67,417 meals served
- 4,055 breakfasts served to high school students
- 3,533 women and children provided with emergency after hours assistance
- 1141 hotel rooms used to provide emergency shelter for women and children
- 228 emergency infant needs provided for
- 4205 Christmas hampers given out
- 2222 people given free clothing
- 219 emergency food hampers distributed
- 70 inner city kids sent to camp
- 113 Family Tracing cases handled
What we did in 2008 It's been quite a year and we want to thank our the Government of Saskatchewan for continued funding, the support of thousands of people making donations at the Centre, via the Christmas kettles, and the Red Shield appeal, and all of the other NGO's in the city that we work with on a daily basis to make Saskatoon a better place to live for people in need. Labels: Affordable Housing, Beaver Creek Camp, Christmas, Emergency Disaster Services, Family Services, Food Services, Life at the Centre, Residential Services, Saskatchewan, Saskatoon
2008 Santa Shuffle Photos
Nathan Regamey took some excellent photographs of the 2008 Santa Shuffle held in Saskatoon on December 6th, 2008. 
The annual Santa Shuffle Fun Run & Elf Walk brings families and friends together. The event is held across North America and we had a record number of runners and walkers taking part in 2008. This merry event helps The Salvation Army to assist families and individuals in need during the Christmas season and throughout the year. A big thanks to everyone who participated in the run and helped make a difference in the lives of Saskatoon families this year! Labels: Christmas, Family Services, Saskatchewan, Saskatoon
Government of Canada Announces $450,000 in support for the Emergency Women’s Shelter in Saskatoon
The Government of Canada announced a $450,000 contribution through the Homelessness Partnering Strategy for the Salvation Army Community Centre to open a women’s shelter on Friday. Canada’s Government is helping families and individuals in Saskatchewan break free from the cycles of homelessness and poverty and build a stronger future for themselves. Mr. Ed Komarnicki, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development and to the Minister of Labour and Member of Parliament for Souris–Moose Mountain, today announced investments in 12 projects in Saskatchewan under the Government’s Homelessness Partnering Strategy (HPS). “Our government is delivering on our commitment to help those who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless. We are proud to support community efforts that help find local solutions to local issues,” said Mr. Komarnicki, who made the announcement on behalf of the Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development. “By investing over $1.7 million in these 12 projects across Saskatchewan, we are supporting community efforts to help those in need.” The announcement took place at the Salvation Army Community Centre in Saskatoon, a shelter, food provider and drop-in centre. The organization is receiving HPS funding to help create 42 emergency shelter beds and six temporary cots for women and children. Individuals will benefit by having a safe place to live in which they can access support services and transition out of homelessness. “The Salvation Army Women’s Shelter will provide a safe and supportive environment for women and children in times of crisis, empowering women to take the necessary steps to obtain safe, secure and long-term stable housing for themselves and their families,” said Captain Rhonda Smith, Executive Director of the Salvation Army Community Centre. The Homelessness Partnering Strategy provides funds over two years to help communities across Canada combat homelessness. The HPS recognizes that housing stability is essential to self-sufficiency and full participation in Canadian society. The Strategy focuses on transitional and supportive housing as important measures to help people overcome homelessness. With its clear goals of improved partnerships, enhanced sustainability and tangible results, HPS will provide concrete, meaningful and lasting results for Canadians in need. “Our government is investing more in affordable and supportive housing than any other federal government in Canada’s history and, as a result, we are helping tens of thousands of Canadians who are especially vulnerable in the current economic environment,” said Mr. Komarnicki. The link between homelessness and mental illness is well established. In 2007, Prime Minister Stephen Harper announced the first-ever Mental Health Commission of Canada. In Budget 2008, the Government committed $110 million for the Commission to develop new, innovative demonstration projects to help Canadians facing mental health and homelessness. Labels: homeless, Life at the Centre, Residential Services, Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Women's Shelter
Rock 102’s Toy Soldier Programs “Wraps Up”
“There is nothing that says ‘Christmas Spirit’ like the community coming together to help a less fortunate child have a toy to open on Christmas Morning.” says Shack, Rock 102’s Morning Show host. This morning 120 Saskatoon volunteers gathered at the Salvation Army Warehouse and wrapped thousands of toys, as part of Rock 102’s 2nd Annual Toy Soldier Wrap Day! The 1st Annual Wrap Day made history in 2007 as the first year ever local children of Saskatoon had wrapped presents in their Salvation Army hampers. Volunteers & Rock 102 wrapped over 15,000 gifts, all of which were donated to the Rock 102 Toy Solider campaign by thousands of generous individuals in Saskatoon. Over 18,000 toys were collected this year! Thank you to all of the volunteers, our sponsors, Midtown Plaza, Mc Donalds, SMP and the Royal Bank. A special thank you goes to everyone who donated a toy and to SGI & Zellers for their generosity. The Salvation Army will distribute all toys to needy families on December 22nd. Labels: Christmas, Donate, Family Services, Saskatoon, Upcoming Events
It's cold outside
 If you are in Saskatoon right now, you know that it is awfully cold outside. At the time of writing this post, it was -32 degrees Celsius and with a biting windchill, it is -45 degrees Celsius outside.
Many people phone and e-mail and ask what do we do when it gets this cold. Well we do a bunch of things to make sure that no one is left out in the cold.
- During the day we open our lounge up for clients so they can stay out of the cold. While normally we close down the place for cleaning during the day, when it is this cold, it stays open all day so guys do not have to go outside. As soon as the dorms and washrooms are cleaned, we open all of them back up for the men so they can have some more space to relax, catch up on some sleep, or read.
- People naturally assume that we get a lot busier when it gets this cold but generally it is a little quieter (people tend to hunker down and stay put when it is this cold). If we do get busier, we would make available our entire building rather than refuse someone (we hate refusing anyone on the basis of space at the best of times but in the winter we make sure that no one is going to freeze). Years ago I took a tour of an old Soviet submarine. It had bunks on the engines and the torpedoes. While the Centre doesn't have torpedoes, we will put a mattress and a bunk anywhere if it means that no one is left out in the cold.
- We work with Larson House and the Saskatoon City Police to ensure people who are intoxicated or high are taken care of if they do wander into our place. Speaking of the Saskatoon City Police, officers do bring in people that do not have shelter or who have been found in shelter that isn't suitable for the weather outside. We warm them up, give them suitable winter gear, and give them a safe place to sleep. Outside of the city limits, the local RCMP does the same thing with hitchhikers. They bring them down and we help them out.
- Our Clothing Cave is generally open Monday, Wednesday, and Friday but in cold weather we outfit people any time they need it. At both of our reception areas we have mitts, toques, scarves, socks, and thanks to Mark's Workwear House and Sleep Country, our lobbies also have numerous winter jackets to give out to anyone in need.
- While this doesn't happen just because it is really cold out, once the temperature starts to dip a bit, the kitchen staff bring out the porridge and oat meal. Wilfred Brimley would be proud. When it is cold like this the kitchen tends to heap up the portions and serves bigger meals to compensate for the calories burned to stay warm.
If you are looking for a way to help, there are a couple things you can do to make a difference.
- Donate. Whether it be a financial donation or if you have a warm winter jacket, socks, toques, gloves, men's underwear (and long underwear) or a scarf, it all helps out. You can drop off a donation at 339 Avenue C South anytime, day or night. When it is this cold we give out the stuff as soon as it comes in so whatever you can give, our clients appreciate tremendously.
- Direct people panhandling or who are in need to us. At this temperature we do not turn anyone away and we work with the Ministry of Social Services to ensure all of their essential needs are met. A warm bed and three and a half meals a day are provided (we provide a filling snack at night as well). Over the last couple of days, City of Saskatoon, bank, and other service agencies have all brought people in. If the person needs a different agency or more help then we can offer, we keep them safe, warm, and comfortable while we arrange whatever help is needed.
- Help spread the news about what we do. Despite being here for over 100 years, some people don't know that there is a men's hostel in town or that we help women in emergency need. We work hard at getting the word out but we can always use your help as well.
Labels: Residential Services, Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, winter
2008 Kettle Kick-Off Photos
Wal-Mart and the Salvation Army Partnering to Help Those in Need
Today some of us were at Wal-Mart at Confederation Park Mall for the kick off of the Christmas Kettle Campaign. It is a national kick-off in Saskatoon and nine other cities across Canada. You can read more about the national campaign here while if you want to look at some photos from the Saskatoon kick off, you can find them here. Labels: Christmas, Saskatoon
Saskatoon Homeless Count Fact Sheet
Denny Carr's Secret Santa
 Our friends at the Denny Carr's Secret Santa Foundation kicked off their Christmas campaign today.
The Salvation Army Denny Carr's Secret Santa was started by CFQC morning man Denny Carr in 1983. Since then its has become one of the most successful campaigns in the city raising donations to help 600 needy families by providing food hampers and unwrapped toys for children 12 and under. Saskatoon Media Group General Manager Vic Dubois says the annual event has proven successful because it focuses on children whose families may not be able to provide food or gifts at Christmas. It's gained support over the years from a number of corporations including TCU Financial, Co-op Food Stores, SJ Irvine Fine Foods, and the Carolling Firefighters who raise funds by singing at various establishments during the period leading up to Christmas . Dubois says his group couldn't do it on their own, and praises the support the campaign gets saying its an entire community effort. There are drop off points throughout the city, including City Hall where unwrapped toys can be left and cash donations made on behalf of Denny Carr's Secret Santa campaign. Mayor Don Atchison made the first toy donation at this morning's kickoff event. Labels: Christmas, Saskatoon
Community Meeting on October 22nd, 2008
Over the last eight months, the Salvation Army Community Centre has been hard at work trying to start a women's homeless shelter in Saskatoon. For many years our Emergency After Hours workers have been fielding calls from women and children at risk after the Ministry of Social Services closes at night. Sometimes people just need to talk, other times they need an emergency food hamper to get them through a tough time or even some diapers. An increasing amount of phone calls have to do with women and families needing emergency shelter. In 2007 we used 1141 hotel rooms to house women and children and in 2008 there has been an even greater demand. Since late 2006, Saskatoon has seen a large economic expansion with a lot of new jobs and new growth. This has both driven up rents and driven down occupancy. The end result is that more people need emergency housing, especially during the winter months. The current long-term shelter, the YWCA has been full for the last couple of years and has to refer hundreds and hundreds of people to us. Other more situation specific shelters have experienced the same kind of increase in occupancy. Until early 2007 we were able to manage by using those shelters and hotel rooms in emergencies. This works many nights but anytime there is a concert, a major convention, hockey tournaments, or an increase in seasonal tourism traffic, we often find that there is no available hotel rooms within the city or surrounding areas. To help provide a better solution than hotel rooms, with the help of the Government of Canada and the Ministry of Social Services, the Salvation Army has placed a conditional offer on a large house on the corner of Avenue D and 34th Street that would be able to hold 12 families comfortably for short term stays (generally a couple of nights). Clients would have their own room and there would be two full time security/caseworkers on duty 24/7/365 to assist both the clients and to ensure the neighborhood is safe The offer is conditional on having the zoning changed which is why we are inviting you to a community meeting to talk with us about this. Anyone is invited and we would love to hear your feedback. The meeting is October 22nd, 2008 at Mayfair Library from 7:00 - 9:00 p.m. If you can't make it and would like to talk more about this project, e-mail me at jordon.cooper@salvationarmysaskatoon.org or give me a call at 242.6833. I live in Mayfair as well, (just down the block from where the shelter will be), and have two young boys. Like everyone in the neighborhood I have a vested interested that the shelter is both a safe place for our clients but also a wonderful addition for the neighborhood! Labels: Saskatoon, Upcoming Events, Women's Shelter
The Salvation Army Toy Ride | September 6
Evacuating
As CBC reports, around 1100 people from Stony Rapids, Black Lake, Uranium City, Pelican Narrows and Sandy Bay are being forced to flee their homes with almost 700 people coming to Saskatoon. The Salvation Army Community Centre is assisting with evacuation efforts by helping house, feed, and offer up assistance in any way the residents need. If you are interested in volunteering with relief efforts, please call the Centre at 242-6833 and talk to Crystal. Labels: Emergency Disaster Services, Saskatchewan, Saskatoon
Housing Handbook
 Here is a resource that many will find helpful, the City of Saskatoon has just released a new housing handbook (PDF) which can be downloaded for free from their website. It has up to date information for renters, home owners, and landlords all in one convenient place.
Labels: Affordable Housing, Saskatoon
Crescent Shuttle Service has been canceled
Saskatoon Transit’s Crescent Shuttle, a free service connecting Riversdale, Broadway and the Downtown, will be cancelled as of June 1, 2008 according to the City of Saskatoon website. Anyone looking for more information on Transit information can check out the City of Saskatoon's site. Labels: Riversdale, Saskatoon
2008 Camp Dates for Beaver Creek Camps
Housing Trends in Saskatoon
These slides came from a recent seminar by CMHC on housing in Saskatoon. We posted here some of the more interesting statistics detailing the cost and how hard it is to find shelter in Saskatoon. The second chart also mirror our own increase of usage at the Centre. Technorati Tags: CHMC, housing trendsLabels: Saskatoon, urban
Ministry Weekend | May 23-25, 2008
- Who: The Salvation Army Community Centre together with local churches.
- What: Speakers, bands, and food.
- When May 23-25th, 2008
- Where: Salvation Army Community Centre Parking lot
For more information or to volunteer, please contact Crystal or Cindy at 242-6833 Labels: Family Services, Life at the Centre, Riversdale, Saskatoon, Upcoming Events
How can you help?
 If you are wondering how you can get involved in serving at the Salvation Army Community Centre, there are several ways and places where you make a difference. If you are looking to volunteer, check out the web page and contact our volunteer coordinator, Crystal Genaille. If you are looking to give, our contact and giving information can be found here. If you are looking to donate some goods, please check out our wishlist.
Which ever way you choose to get involved, we are glad that we can partner in it together. Labels: Life at the Centre, Saskatoon
Riversdale Local Area Plan
This is a Public Service Announcement from the City of Saskatoon that may be of interest to some of you. The City of Saskatoon City Planning Branch is hosting an Open House to showcase the Riversdale Local Area Plan Final Draft Report with the community: Tuesday, April 155:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Royal Canadian Legion 606 Spadina Crescent West This is a drop-in event where the public is welcome anytime during the Open House. The City of Saskatoon and the Riversdale Local Area Planning Committee (a committee of residents, property owners, business owners and other stakeholders) have been working on a comprehensive plan for Riversdale to help guide the growth and development of the neighbourhood. Labels: Riversdale, Saskatoon, Upcoming Events, urban
Salvation Army's 2008 Volunteer Appreciation Luncheon and Red Shield Appeal Kick Off
 You are invited to join us on Friday, April 25th 2008 at the Saskatoon Hilton Garden Inn at 11:45 a.m. We are honoring our volunteers who help make it possible for the Salvation Army Community Centre to serve Saskatoon and we are launching the 2008 Red Shield Appeal.
If you are planning to attend, please let us know at 306.242.6833. Labels: Red Shield Appeal, Saskatoon, Upcoming
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The Salvation Army Community Centre is hosting a Fall Supper on October 17 at 5:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m.
