People are once again living in tents at Pepsi Park in Regina, where volunteers and support workers are providing food, supplies and addiction services while calling for more affordable housing options. Shawn Koch, a volunteer with Sunday Funday YQR, said the group has already met with the City of Regina and is encouraged by the support provided. “They’ve already provided a couple of porta-potties which we are ecstatic about,” Koch said. “We’re looking for a few more things, but ultimately we’re looking for safe, adequate affordable housing for all.” The last time people were living in tents in the park the city tore down the community and moved residents to a newly-created emergency shelter. This time the city says it has no immediate plans to decommission the encampment. In a statement to CTV News, the city said “it recognizes that homelessness is a growing challenge in our community and continues to work with partner agencies and all levels of public service to find both urgent and long-term solutions.” Among those agencies is the Newo Yotina Friendship Centre. Addictions counsellors are also on site. Regina resident Rylan Campeau said he’s an active drug user but wants to become sober. “Every day I am getting sick of it, and I want to get clean,” he said. Those living in this park don’t know how long they’ll remain, as it could depend on how long the city allows it, or how soon better housing alternatives are found.
