A temporary solution to assist Medicine Hat’s homeless and vulnerable individuals during the winter may shut down due to a funding dispute. The city in southeast Alberta has been lacking a dedicated daytime shelter since last winter when concerns from neighbors and zoning issues led to the closure of a services hub near downtown operated by The Mustard Seed.
In the search for a less controversial site, SafeLink Alberta extended its general drop-in hours as winter approached. However, the group, which offers free needles and harm reduction supplies, has been informed that the Alberta government has rejected its access to federal funds allocated for addressing drug addiction. Consequently, sustaining the additional homeless support service may become financially unfeasible, potentially resulting in its permanent closure.
City councillor Bill Cocks expressed shared apprehension for the unhoused population during winter months. He urged the provincial government, which holds authority over federal grants allotted to cities, to reconsider their decision. The denial of funds to SafeLink Alberta was attributed to a lack of clarity on fund utilization and the absence of mention of homeless services in the application.
SafeLink’s primary goal is to reduce the spread of diseases related to intravenous drug use by providing free needles, peer support, and information on drug treatment and social service programs. The Alberta Mental Health and Addictions Ministry stated that the application lacked sufficient detail to prioritize connecting individuals to recovery-oriented support, leading to the funding denial.
The Alberta government has emphasized its desire to have more control over federal funds designated for provincial areas like health. SafeLink officials are exploring alternative funding sources, as without an additional $300,000 annually, they may have to discontinue homeless drop-in hours. SafeLink’s executive director, Katie Ayres, highlighted the importance of their low-barrier, daytime space as the only one in Medicine Hat open to anyone in need of support.
Efforts to find a permanent shelter in Medicine Hat continue following the closure of The Mustard Seed’s day shelter. The Alberta government has called for the expedited identification of a less contentious location for a unified day and overnight facility. The city is collaborating with The Mustard Seed to review potential locations after a proposal was submitted and withdrawn in the fall. The Ministry of Assisted Living and Social Services plans to allocate $4 million this year to homeless supports in Medicine Hat as part of a larger $220 million province-wide initiative.
