Sonny Montilla is willing to invest as long as he can afford it. (Derek Cornet/larongeNOW Staff)

By Derek Cornet

Scattered Site

Businessman willing to invest to keep La Ronge homeless warm this winter

Aug 28, 2020 | 4:50 PM

The Source owner Sonny Montilla, who is also the current landlord for Scattered Site Outreach Program in La Ronge, doesn’t want to see anyone sleeping out in the cold this winter.

The businessman reached out to larongeNOW earlier this week requesting an interview after learning of town council’s four to one vote not to rezone another building downtown to make way for the relocation of Scattered Site. Kikinahk Friendship Centre Executive Director Ron Woytowich, who oversees the program, previously said he had to find a new facility because of issues such as groundwater flooding, heating, air conditioning and ventilation.

“As a business owner and landlord of the building, I’m willing to invest to do some renovations,” Montilla said. “I’m willing to invest as long as I can afford it. I am just an ordinary local business guy and I am willing to do that through the help of Scattered Site.”

Montilla first purchased the building five years ago and he said Scattered Site was already operating out of the basement. He decided to keep them as a tenant because he realized the need for the organization after seeing clients sleeping under trees or in tents.

While the building can host regular Scattered Sites programming without any issues, the organization is no longer permitted to run an overnight shelter which typically starts Nov. 15 and lasts until March 31. There are several issues that need to be addressed in order to bring it up to code to accommodate overnight clients.

Made in Saskatchewan

Find My Plus One: The Canadian App for Getting Out and Living Your Best Life

Mar 09, 2026

Riderville

Ask Not for Whom the Ed Hervey Tampering Window Opens!

Feb 02, 2026

Seniors Scene

New Year - New Habits

Feb 02, 2026

“I feel sorry for our brothers and sisters that they need a place to stay,” Montilla said. “For me, I am willing to work with Kikinahk and the team there. If I need to invest money, I am willing to do that for the sake of those people. I’m worried in the wintertime they are going to be having issues outside.”

Montilla mentioned he understands the concerns of those who don’t want Scattered Site moving down the street, but he added in his experience, clients have been courteous and respectful. He explained sometimes they will sit outside his shop, so he makes time to visit with them.

Montilla also called the current location of Scattered Sites ideal considering its close to pharmacies and the clinic.

“These people have their issues and their concerns and now when it becomes wintertime, they don’t have a place to stay? My heart broke,” he said. “They are very disciplined and courteous. They are a respectful people.”

–

derek.cornet@jpbg.ca

Twitter: @saskjourno