YMCA earmarks $63 million to end homelessness in Regina

After two years of consultation, there is a now a plan to tackle homelessness in Regina.

Over the next five years, the YMCA and its partners will spend $38 million in program supports and $25 million in capital costs with a goal to get people off the street.

There will be 270 additional Housing First program spaces for those experiencing chronic and episodic homelessness. There are currently only 30.

It is hoped a further 80 units will be added to that.

Those involved say the plan costs only $15 a day, but the cost of a homeless person in jail is $144 per day and $364 for that same person to wind up in hospital.

“The bottom line is it is less costly to house and support individuals and families who are homeless than not invest in addressing a key issue that faces our community,” the YMCA said in a media release.

The YMCA claims that if the status quo were to remain in Regina, it would cost public systems roughly $75 million over the next five years to deal with those living on the streets. If the plan is implemented, $37 million would be saved over the same timeframe.

It is estimated that the plan will help support approximately 2,200 people over the next five years. It also includes the creation of Assertive Community Treatment and Intensive Case Management teams to support people.

“There is a role for everyone to be involved, including community service providers, all levels of government, the private sector and all community members,” the release said. “With the proper investment, foresight and collaboration, it is possible for our community to end the experience of chronic and episodic homelessness in our city.”

A count in April 2018 identified 286 people living as homeless in Regina.