Randy Boivin's comeback story has attracted lots of attention on social media. (Nigel Maxwell/ paNOW Staff)

By Nigel Maxwell

Making a comeback

Homeless to a job site: a Prince Albert success story

Sep 9, 2024 | 5:00 PM

When asked how it feels to be working again, a smile quickly fills Randy Boivin’s face.

Up until recently, the 59-year-old spent his days at the Cornerstone shopping area. It was the location’s property manager who told him to make a sign letting people know he was looking for work.

As if fate itself stepped in, the owner of a local construction company saw it and promptly gave Boivin a job.

“I love it, it’s great. I really enjoy it,” Boivin told paNOW on Monday, while working at a job site in the Lakeland area.

When asked how he came to be in Prince Albert, the self-taught software developer explained that about two months ago he made the move from North Bay, Ontario.

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“I came here because it’s beautiful. It’s a beautiful city,” he said noting he lived in Saskatchewan many years ago and always felt a desire to return.

Randy Boivin takes pleasure in not being bored anymore. (Nigel Maxwell/paNOW Staff)

For now Boivin spends his nights at the Stepping Stones shelter and then gets picked up each morning to come to work.

Matthew Franc, owner of AZLS construction, saw a picture of Boivin on social media, and immediately tried to think about the last time he saw someone looking for work.

“I had a gut feeling and I said this guy wants to work and needs help,” he said, noting his company, like others in the construction industry, has an abundance of jobs but not enough workers.

Soon after, Franc sent one of his hired guys over to the Cornerstone area and picked Randy up.

Randy and Matt Love assess the task at hand. (Nigel Maxwell/paNOW Staff)

“He’s actually a really nice polite man and so I think we are gonna continue putting him to work and help him find a place to stay,” Franc commented.

Boivin’s tasks at work include hauling tin, holding stuff up and just helping keep the job site clean.

“He’s been very useful and he wants to learn,” Franc said.

With respect to possibly providing similar opportunities to other homeless people, Franc did not rule it out, reiterating he’s got lots of work and his crew is expanding.

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nigel.maxwell@pattisonmedia.com

On X: @nigelmaxwell