(Susan McNeil/paNOW Staff)
PERMANENT SHELTER

City of P.A. asking property and land owners for help in finding new shelter location

May 1, 2024 | 12:08 PM

As work continues establishing a permanent emergency shelter for Prince Albert, the City and the YWCA are asking for help from residents.

In a release issued on Wednesday, the City of Prince Albert is now asking for property owners with suitable buildings or land to come forward if they meet the specific criteria for a shelter.

The release states that the ideal property should have buildings with a minimum of 9,000 square feet, outdoor space for a fenced seating area, and at least 10 parking stalls.

The inside of the buildings should also accommodate the shelter’s operations effectively.

On top of that, any serviced land that can house a 9,000-square-foot building and the outdoor requirements will also be considered.

While the province has committed funding to establish a permanent, 24/7 shelter, a suitable location has still not been found.

“We are not looking for a shelter next to a school or densely populated residential area,” said the CEO of the YWCA Donna Brooks. “Some locations will benefit from the extra security brought by the shelter, staff presence, and amenities such as washrooms. We are committed to ensuring the surrounding areas are well-maintained through daily clean-up activities and providing a fenced outside recreation area for clients to socialize and engage.”

Late last, the YWCA announced its Stepping Stone shelter would operate 24/7 at its temporary location on the Prince Albert Exhibition Grounds.

The YWCA said several locations have been identified, but have not been approved by city hall.

READ MORE: Still looking: finding spot for permanent shelter a challenge for YWCA

Property owners interested in contributing to the permanent shelter are encouraged to contact the City of Prince Albert or the YWCA.

panews@pattisonmedia.com

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