(Treaty 5, 6, 8 & 10) PRINCE ALBERT, Sask. – Prince Albert Grand Council (PAGC) has officially signed an agreement with the Government of Saskatchewan to assume operations of the Stepping Stones emergency shelter, ensuring continued services
for people experiencing homelessness in the city.
PAGC Urban Services, led by Edward Mirasty, took over daily operations of the temporary shelter location at 950 Exhibition Drive on May 15.
The transition follows a key exchange hosted by the YWCA Prince Albert on Tuesday, May 13, which included a community barbecue. A smudging ceremony is scheduled for Friday, May 16, to bless the space and mark the start of a new chapter.
“We’re proud to be taking over these essential services for our relatives who are without housing,” said Grand Chief Brian Hardlotte. “Many of those experiencing homelessness in Prince Albert are Indigenous, and that’s not by accident — it is a
direct result of colonial policies, displacement, and generations of systemic exclusion. Moving forward, we hope to work together with all levels of government and service providers to create long-term, transformative solutions that will address
the root causes of this crisis.”
The enhanced shelter provides clients with full access to shelter 24 hours per day, seven days per week, along with the following wrap-around supports
- Meals
- On-site case management
- Referrals to housing, income assistance, addictions supports, cultural and
spiritual services, and employment programs
“Ensuring emergency shelter is available for those in need is a top priority,” Social Services Minister Terry Jenson said. “We are pleased to be working with Prince Albert Grand Council to continue providing services at the current Stepping Stones shelter location. We thank YWCA Prince Albert for their important work supporting individuals experiencing homelessness and look forward to our partnership with PAGC to support and improve outcomes for individuals experiencing homelessness.”
YWCA Prince Albert announced earlier this year that it would cease operations at the temporary shelter location on May 15. YWCA Prince Albert continues to be an invaluable partner in the transition of services. PAGC is working together with the Province and YWCA Prince Albert to ensure no disruption in service.
Hardlotte also recognized the long-standing leadership of Donna Brooks, CEO of YWCA Prince Albert
“Her dedication—often going beyond the organization’s mandate—has made a lasting difference in the lives of those who turned to the shelter for help,” he said.
