Homelessness is a major issue in the city as well as the province, and with the weather getting colder, we need to act now.

Most of the homeless population cannot access the beds at Riverside Mission, as there are only four beds available (due to COVID-19).

If you are battling active addictions or are a woman, the only shelter in Moose Jaw is not available to you.

Moose Jaw Pride offers a Neighbourhood Warming Space, a place for people to go during the day to stay warm and have something to eat, but the space closes at 6 pm, so finding shelter at night has become an issue for many. 

Taylor Carlson, Executive Director of Moose Jaw Pride, says the issue is complex. 

"They spend the evening hunching for a place to stay or bunking with someone who might not be the healthiest person for them to stay with," says Carlson. 

They also say that connecting with resources in the community can be really difficult and many people who are homeless don't even bother anymore.

"People feel they should spend the day without that stress."

Having a safe and warm place to sleep is a privilege that Carlson emphasized. 

"I get to go home and relax, I get to eat. I get to do all the things that will make me healthy and okay to do what I need to do tomorrow."

The number of Moose Javians who do not have those privileges is climbing. 

The warming space is always in need of volunteers, email Taylor at taylor@moosejawpride.ca.

Carlson says they could also use food and winter clothing. 

They say the best thing to do for the most vulnerable part of our population is to reach out to local MLA's or MP's to gain real traction on this issue.