Saskatoon Clears Homeless Encampment to Begin Remediation Work

The City of Saskatoon has dismantled a large homeless encampment in the Riversdale neighbourhood, displacing approximately 30 individuals as the city prepares for environmental remediation work. On August 17, 2023, the Saskatoon Fire Department issued an emergency notice for the vacant lot located at 1202 19th St. W, citing health and safety concerns for those living in the area.

Residents of the encampment, which had grown to include around 25 tents and makeshift shelters, were given a 24-hour notice to vacate. The decision came as the city moves forward with plans to address contamination issues in the property, which has been vacant for over two decades. The site is close to essential services, including food and shelter providers such as Prairie Harm Reduction and CUMFI (Central Urban Metis Federation Inc.).

Among those affected was Jeffery Okimow, 61, who has faced significant challenges due to health issues stemming from a previous career in roofing. He shared his story of hardship, having moved to Saskatoon from Makwa Sahgaiehcan First Nation in 1980, and expressed concerns about the lack of affordable housing options. “They won’t rent to us anymore,” Okimow said, referencing the stigma surrounding homelessness.

Another resident, Warren Gunn, 53, reflected on his situation, recalling how he was forced to leave his previous residence due to safety concerns. “It would be nice if they had a campground for us in the city,” he suggested, advocating for a designated space with proper facilities.

The city’s response to the encampment clearing emphasized the urgent need for remediation work. According to an official statement, the city acquired the property in 2001 due to unpaid taxes. The last environmental assessment, conducted in 2002, identified hydrocarbon and metal contaminants in the soil, prompting a collaboration with Imperial Oil for remediation efforts. Work is scheduled to begin on August 22, 2023, necessitating the removal of people living on the site by the previous day.

Despite the city’s offer of assistance, including shelter options and connections to social services, none of the displaced individuals accepted help. The city acknowledged the complexity of homelessness, stating that addressing the situation requires a community-wide response. “The Saskatoon Fire Department recognizes homelessness is a complex issue which requires a whole-community response,” the statement read.

While some residents expressed gratitude for the sense of community within the encampment, others voiced frustration over their sudden displacement. Irene Leach, 55, who had been living in the encampment with her daughter-in-law, cited the camaraderie among residents as a pivotal aspect of their experience. “It’s so much friendlier here in Saskatoon,” she remarked.

As the operation concluded, city officials supervised the move-out, with police and fire vehicles present at the site. Workers collected unwanted items as the area was cleared. By the following morning, the lot was largely vacant, save for one individual who remained behind, underscoring the ongoing challenges faced by the homeless community in Saskatoon.

The situation reflects broader issues surrounding homelessness and the need for sustainable solutions that prioritize the well-being of individuals affected by housing instability.