Encampments

An encampment is any area where an individual or a group of people live unhoused together, often in tents or other temporary shelters.  

In some circumstances, encampments can pose a level of risk to people staying in the encampment as well as the surrounding community. Risks include biohazards, needles, garbage, unsafe heating sources, fire and proximity to schools or playgrounds.  

Reporting encampments 

Please do not approach an encampment or the individuals in a temporary shelter. If you see someone living in unsafe outdoor living conditions, please contact the Service Saskatoon 24hr Customer Care Centre at 306-975-2476 to have your report added to the queue. Current response times for the encampment team is approximately one week. 

An organized response 

The City of Saskatoon, led by the Saskatoon Fire Department (SFD) recognizes homelessness is a complex issue which requires a whole-community response. SFD and partnering agencies have a coordinated encampment response plan that works to:

• Connect people living in encampments with supports
• Reduce concentration of people in encampments and the potential for unsafe activities
• Improve safety and cleanliness for everyone living and working in areas in and around encampments

Together, the group provides connection to wrap-around supports for people experiencing homelessness, including:

• Food and water
• Mental health and/or addiction support
• Access to Elders
• Trauma Support Services
• Access to drop-in centres, emergency shelters and other available housing options
• Support in accessing Ministry of Social Services programs such as access to identification documents and Income Assistance
• Transportation to hospitals and other emergency supports

Material donations can be dropped off at: 

Salvation Army 
339 Avenue C South 
306-244-6280 

YWCA 
510-25th Street East 
306-986-2870