The Government of Saskatchewan has caused uncertainty regarding the fate of a shelter in downtown Moose Jaw by contradicting a relocation plan that was initially confirmed by Premier Scott Moe and Justice Minister Tim McLeod. During a press conference held by the province, Mayor James Murdock revealed that the Ministry of Social Services had instructed the relocation of the 15-bed Willow Lodge shelter away from the downtown area.
Murdock emphasized the importance of the downtown core for the city’s operations and service offerings. He stated that the Ministry believed a permanent temporary shelter should be moved to a more suitable location to enhance community services. Following Murdock’s announcement, Moe and McLeod addressed the audience without refuting Murdock’s statement. McLeod mentioned that the city’s request was to collaborate with the Ministry to determine an appropriate relocation site.
However, hours later, a government spokesperson released a statement denying that the Ministry had issued a directive to relocate the shelter. The statement mentioned ongoing discussions with the mayor and community members to address concerns and find a coordinated solution that meets the needs of the community. CBC’s request for further clarification remains unanswered.
The relocation announcement caught many by surprise at the news conference, including Mayor Murdock himself, who had just learned of the decision that morning. McLeod, along with MLA Megan Patterson, acknowledged receiving requests to move the shelter out of downtown Moose Jaw. The Willow Lodge shelter was established in early 2024 as part of the provincial government’s initiative to tackle homelessness in Saskatchewan by setting up temporary shelters. McLeod affirmed that the collaboration between the province and municipalities in identifying shelter locations and funding spaces continues.
The Willow Lodge shelter, operated by the John Howard Society of Saskatchewan, did not have a representative present at the conference. The CEO of the society, Shawn Fraser, expressed surprise upon learning about the relocation decision through CBC. Fraser highlighted Moose Jaw’s homelessness issue and questioned how moving the shelter to a potentially less accessible location would address the problem.
During the news conference, Alex Carleton, chair of the Moose Jaw Downtown Association, voiced concerns about the livelihood of business owners and emphasized the importance of compassion and collaboration within the community. Carleton emphasized the town’s status as a tourist destination and the need to support local businesses.
Premier Moe assured that relocating the shelter would not diminish services but rather improve them. He acknowledged the province’s involvement in the shelter business due to the challenges posed by harmful substances in Saskatchewan communities.