Our province’s emergency shelters and other services for the most vulnerable are quickly becoming overwhelmed and need immediate financial help from the Government of Saskatchewan.Ìý
At a time when housing is more important than ever, the current provincial government left shelters without the adequate resources to deal with the growing demand. Years of inaction on homelessness, affordable housing and support for victims of domestic violence trying to escape their situations have created a perfect storm during the pandemic.Ìý
Agencies are funded based on the number of beds being used have seen their funding reduced, while the need has increased, as they’ve had to limit the number of beds in a room because of physical distancing. This has put them at a disadvantage, while limiting their ability to meet the growing needs.Ìý
Agencies are funded based on set amounts each year, meanwhile, they’re trying to make their dollars stretch further, because they also have to accommodate for social distancing. Therefore, some agencies have to rent extra premises to house their clients – in turn, this means more employees, cleaning supplies and food services.Ìý
In addition to monetary issues, these NGOS are facing a lack of clarity or even contradictory directions from the government. Some say they are receiving different instructions from one day to the next.
The staff are never sure of what the proper protocols and procedures are from day-to-day. As well, the agencies dealing with more than one ministry receive conflicting instructions from different departments with no apparent communication or coordination amongst ministries. In addition, when agencies request instructions in writing from the ministries, this is never provided. Instructions are given verbally only, leading to confusion and stress.Ìý
While this is clearly unchartered waters for all of us, we are learning more each day about COVID-19, changing the way we deal with the virus.
Daily written updates would be a great benefit for our agencies. That way, even as changes are made, staff and management would always know they are working with the latest evidence-based information and procedures.Ìý
Our non-profits have faced serious constraints in being able to fundraise during this time and have had to spend a great deal more money than anticipated even a short two months ago. It is not fair to ask these agencies to dip into their reserves, if they have any at all.
There is a great fear that after the pandemic is over, these agencies will not catch up financially. Their management and staff are overworked under stressful conditions. They are needing to spend money without knowing how they will recoup those dollars. It is not fair to expect these agencies to undertake additional fundraising on top of everything else they are doing now.Ìý
The federal government hasÌýprovided some funding and other provinces have matched this to meet the needs and challenges.
The Sask. Party government needs to recognize the extraordinary challenges our frontline agencies are dealing with at this time and properly fund these vital services.ÌýThis needs to happen quickly. The people who are helping our most vulnerable can no longer be ignored by the government.
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