MOOSE JAW — The has commenced services with the program’s first day of operations opening recently.
“We formally launched at the beginning of December at Square One Community into a front-line service, and right now we are currently supporting six individuals (who are) already here at the facility at William Milne (Place),” said Maxton Eckstein, Square One’s co-ordinator.
Square One’s supportive housing initiative provides independent living accommodations for up to 15 individuals, and the program has the potential to expand .
“Once somebody has been staying fairly consistently at the (Willow Lodge) shelter and (have been) receiving those initial services, they’ll then be referred to the supportive housing program here,” Eckstein explained.
Once referred, an individual will then be offered an independent suite at William Milne. These individuals then receive daily services from Square One with the aim of helping them maintain their tenancy and ultimately taking the next step towards full independence.
Square One’s current priority is to secure funding to expand staffing, as limited resources are now restricting how many clients the organization can support. With 15 suites available in the building, only six are currently in use due to this limitation.
The ongoing need for specialized support, training, and developing a consistent bond of trust means that the role cannot rely on volunteers but will require additional permanent staff.
“At these initial stages (of the recovery program), we’re looking for people that can provide that direct front-line support to individuals that need intensive care coming right out of homelessness,” explained Eckstein.
For Square One, collaboration with local businesses and other enterprises has been critical in launching its front-line services. However, as Moose Jaw continues to grow and the needs of its residents continue to evolve, Eckstein is calling for urban-level funding to continue meeting these ever-growing needs.
“What’s really interesting about Moose Jaw is, being the largest rural and remote community in the province, sometimes it can be very difficult to attract the funding needed for new programming,” he explained.
Square One is also looking to expand its partnership with the federal and provincial governments, as well as other businesses and community organizations. suggested that around 74 individuals are currently unhoused, and Eckstein’s goal is to find a way to help them all.
Eckstein said he’s constantly impressed by the actions of the community and added that Square One can only continue to offer its outreach programs with this ongoing support.
“I’d also like to mention that I’m really proud of our community in the way that they — right now — are responding to this cold snap that we’re having,” he said. “I’m seeing restaurants allowing people to come in and warm up, and I’m seeing community members offering warm winter gear to people walking along the street.
“It’s just a wonderful time to see the real spirit of Moose Jaw come out during this cold snap, and it gives me great hope for the future of unhoused individuals here in the city,” Eckstein said.
Eckstein emphasized that these acts of kindness reflect the compassionate and proactive nature of the local community — a spirit that gives him hope in the effort to provide individuals a new chance at life.
“Our hearts are really warmed by the efforts this community has put forward,” Eckstein concluded.
One way you can help support this initiative is by attending the rib night fundraiser to be held at The Crushed Can on Jan. 30 from 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. with tickets available by contacting Square One. The organization will also be hosting its Walk for Warmth fundraiser around mid-March.
To learn more call 306-631-9340, visit , follow ‘’ on Facebook, or email [email protected].
William Milne Place is located at 132 Fairford Street West.
