In October 2022, Alberta’s government released its homelessness action plan to better address the complex issue facing many Albertans. One of the steps listed in the plan is to expand the number of shelter spaces for the winter months in communities where there is an urgent and unmet need.
To ensure those experiencing homelessness in Slave Lake get the support they need, a new year-round emergency shelter opened last week. The $730,000 investment will help the town fund up to 20 spaces for individuals experiencing homelessness.
"Homelessness in Slave Lake is an increasingly challenging issue, and one of the most important things we can do is make sure there is space for vulnerable community members to access the help they need. We look forward to working with municipal leaders to secure a permanent site for these services, and to supporting their startup in a temporary location."
Temporary winter emergency spaces have been operating in Slave Lake since 2018. While municipal leaders secure a permanent location for the shelter, the town has opened a temporary space in a trailer on vacant land to provide emergency spaces.
“I am very pleased and grateful to be a part of this important funding project for the Town of Slave Lake and its surrounding area. There are no quick fixes, but this announcement is another example of our government’s commitment to making a difference. We will continue to also invest heavily in the path to recovery and provide supports to combat both homelessness and mental health and addictions.”
“I'm overjoyed to announce the opening of our provincially funded homeless shelter, a result of years of tireless advocacy for our most vulnerable population. This shelter opening marks a significant step toward meaningful change in our community towards supporting our homeless population and sheltering them from the harsh northern Alberta climate. No shelter is the answer to eradicating homelessness, but it is our hope that this is a step forward on the right path, and as one of our community members said, we should be most uncomfortable doing nothing. This shelter would not be possible without the hard work of our town staff, MLA Scott Sinclair and the support of Minister Nixon and his department, and I am truly grateful that our town was considered for this funding.”
Alberta’s action plan on homelessness commits to an investment of $63 million over two years to fund projects and initiatives in support of Albertans facing homelessness. The new year-round Slave Lake emergency shelter is the most recent investment.
Quick facts
- Since the action plan on homelessness was released, Alberta’s government has invested $63 million into initiatives and projects, including:
- $24 million to Homeward Trust
- $18 million for increased shelter spaces
- $13.5 million for expanding shelters to 24-7 service
- $7.5 million to pilot the service hub model in Calgary and Edmonton