Finding Community Shelters and Transitional Housing in Saskatchewan

If you are a tenant in Saskatchewan and facing eviction, it can feel overwhelming to find stable housing quickly. Fortunately, Saskatchewan has a dedicated network of community shelters and transitional housing options to help you during challenging times. This guide explains what resources are available, how to access them, and what rights you have as a tenant in Saskatchewan.

Understanding Emergency Shelter and Transitional Housing Options

Emergency shelters and transitional housing programs offer temporary accommodation and support to individuals and families who have lost their homes. These services are available throughout Saskatchewan in both rural and urban communities, providing a critical safety net during difficult periods.

Emergency Shelters

Emergency shelters provide immediate, short-term accommodation for anyone with nowhere else to go. Many shelters operate 24/7 and may offer meals, clothing, and basic health care. In larger cities like Saskatoon, Regina, and Prince Albert, you will find specialized shelters serving families, youth, and women fleeing domestic violence.

• Who can use them? Anyone experiencing homelessness or at risk of homelessness, including after eviction.
• How long can you stay? Stays range from a single night to a few weeks while you work on a longer-term housing plan.
• How to access? Most shelters accept walk-ins, and many have staff who can help connect you to further supports, including transitional housing and social services.

Transitional Housing Programs

Transitional housing provides medium-term accommodation (from several months up to two years), usually paired with support programs. These programs are designed to help people move toward permanent, stable housing. Transitional housing often serves people leaving emergency shelters, families escaping domestic violence, or youth aging out of care.

Examples of transitional housing supports include:

• Life skills training and tenancy education
• Support finding permanent rental housing
• Assistance with employment or schooling
• Counselling and health services

Providers include organizations such as the YWCA, Saskatoon Housing Coalition, and Salvation Army branches.

Tenant Rights and the Eviction Process in Saskatchewan

If you are facing eviction, you have important rights under the The Residential Tenancies Act, 2006.^[1] The official body responsible for residential tenancy matters is the Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT).^[2]

Landlords must follow legal procedures and issue proper written notice before evicting a tenant. If you receive an eviction notice or order, you have options and may be eligible for appeals or support. For a thorough overview of tenancy rights in your province, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan.

Relevant Official Forms

• Application for Termination of Tenancy and Possession of the Rental Unit (ORT-1): Used by landlords to apply for eviction. If you receive notice of such an application, you can respond and present your case to the tribunal. Official form and process available from the ORT Forms Library.
• Tenant’s Application for Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT-2): Allows tenants to dispute a landlord’s action or seek compensation. For example, if your landlord locks you out without an order, use this form to apply for relief. Details on submitting and examples provided here.

Action steps are provided below if you need to respond to an eviction or apply for assistance.

Accessing Shelter and Housing Supports

Major Saskatchewan cities host several organizations offering both emergency shelter and transitional housing:

• Regina: YWCA Regina, Salvation Army Waterston Centre, Phoenix Residential Society
• Saskatoon: YWCA Saskatoon, Lighthouse Supported Living, Saskatoon Housing Initiative Partnership
• Prince Albert: Central Avenue Housing, YWCA Prince Albert

You can search for more shelter options and get up-to-date information via the Government of Saskatchewan Homelessness & Emergency Housing portal.

Tip: If you are leaving a rental abruptly, check our guide for How to Properly End Your Rental Agreement as a Tenant to help avoid future complications.

When you are ready to search for your next home, Browse apartments for rent in Canada for current listings and local information.

Common Issues and Rights After Moving Into New Housing

Transitioning to a new rental – either through a shelter’s support or independently – can raise questions about rights, deposits, and the inspection process. For guidance, see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know, and always request documentation when you move in or out.

FAQ

1. What should I do immediately after being evicted in Saskatchewan?
   If you are evicted, try to stay calm and contact a local shelter or transitional housing provider. Apply for emergency income or housing supports through the Ministry of Social Services and consult the emergency housing portal for options nearby.
2. Can I appeal an eviction order in Saskatchewan?
   Yes. After a landlord applies for a termination order, you may present your case before the Office of Residential Tenancies. Gather all your documents and present your side clearly to the adjudicator.
3. How long can I stay in a Saskatchewan emergency shelter?
   Maximum stays vary depending on the shelter’s rules, but most allow several days to a few weeks. If you need more time, staff can help you find longer-term transitional housing resources.
4. Is there financial assistance to help with new rent or deposits?
   Yes. The Saskatchewan Income Support (SIS) program and local charities may provide help with rent, deposits, and moving costs for those experiencing homelessness or at risk of homelessness.
5. Where can I learn more about my rights as a tenant in Saskatchewan?
   See Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan for detailed information about tenant laws, the eviction process, and dispute resolution.

Key Takeaways for Tenants Facing Housing Instability

• Saskatchewan offers emergency shelters and transitional housing in most communities—help is available.
• If you receive an eviction notice, know your rights and use official forms to respond or seek support.
• Transitional housing bridges the gap to permanent rentals and comes with added support.

Remember, accessing resources quickly and being informed about your tenant rights can ease the transition to stable housing.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Saskatchewan Government: Homelessness and Emergency Housing
• Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT) – Saskatchewan
• 211 Saskatchewan – Community service helpline for housing, food, and crisis support
• Saskatchewan Income Support
• For a full overview of tenant rights, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan

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1. The Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (Saskatchewan)
2. Office of Residential Tenancies – Government of Saskatchewan

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