FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
United Way Saskatoon and Area Grants $20,000 to Elizabeth Fry Society of Saskatchewan to Support New Transitional Housing Program for Women
Saskatoon, SK – October 22, 2024 – United Way Saskatoon and Area (United Way) announces a $20,000 grant to the Elizabeth Fry Society of Saskatchewan (EFry) to support the weekend staffing of a new 10-bedroom transitional housing program for women who are criminalized or at risk of criminalization.
“At United Way, we believe in the power of community support to create lasting change. This grant to the Elizabeth Fry Society is an investment in stability and hope for women in need that will help to address immediate needs and lay the groundwork for a brighter future,” says Sheri Benson, United Way Saskatoon and Area CEO.
This spring, the Saskatchewan Housing Corporation granted EFry interest in a 10-bedroom duplex, which EFry has since renovated and developed into a vital housing resource. This program addresses the urgent need for stable housing, especially as correctional institutions operate at double capacity, often housing women who are on remand—charged but not yet convicted—primarily due to a lack of stable housing.
“Safe, stable housing is the foundation for any real change,” says Nicole Obrigovich, Executive Director of EFry. “When people are properly supported in community, they are less likely to reoffend. Investing in community resources not only saves money on institutional costs but fosters healthier families and communities. We all want the same things—healthy communities, healthy families, and healthy individuals.”
The new housing program offers more than just shelter—it includes structured programming that focuses on addiction recovery, mental health support, employment training, family reunification, and cultural activities such as sharing circles, beading, and medicine picking.
The $20,000 grant from United Way will fund essential weekend staffing, enabling EFry to demonstrate the program’s impact and secure permanent funding in the future. This support is part of United Way’s commitment to seed funding new programs that address pressing community needs. The funding is in addition to the $25,000 United Way already invested in EFry this year, alongside a nurse practitioner partnership facilitated for the home by the United Way team.
Media Inquiries:
Dan Matthews
306.380.9239
dmatthews@unitedwaysaskatoon.ca
###
About United Way Saskatoon and Area
United Way Saskatoon & Area is dedicated to creating opportunities for a better life for everyone in our community. Through collaboration, advocacy, and resource mobilization, we work towards addressing social issues and building a stronger, more inclusive community.
About Elizabeth Fry Society of Saskatchewan
The Elizabeth Fry Society of Saskatchewan is a non-profit organization serving women and gender diverse adults who are criminalized or at risk of criminalization. They reduce barriers to justice and equity through advocacy, cultural teachings, and practical support.
They provide legal assistance, court support, access to information and programming, addiction recovery supports and support for community integration.
PHOTO CREDIT: United Way Saskatoon and Area
L-R: Kurt Wintermute, United Way board chair (left) with Nicole Obrigovitch, EFry executive director (centre) and Cherysse Mackechnie, the new transition home manager (right).
Topics : News
