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Homelessness has been a growing issue in Saskatoon. The number of people who are considered “absolutely” homeless — living in a shelter or on the street — rose to 450 in 2015 from 260 in 2008. Forty-five of them are children, 55 are are youths and 350 are adults. Sixty-two per cent of people experiencing homelessness are men and 45 per cent are aboriginal.

While more accurate counts may be a factor behind the increase, so are rising rents and lower incomes due to the economy, Dyck said, adding that the effects of trauma and abuse need to be recognized as a cause of homelessness, particularly among the aboriginal population.

The five-year plan is broken down into specific sets of goals, including improving service coordination, boosting housing placement and support programs, focusing on prevention and ensuring a supply of appropriate housing.

To prevent homelessness, the plan highlights developing discharge planning protocols with hospitals, child and family services and corrections. It also contemplates the creation of a local “rent bank,” which would help people supplement their income to pay rent if they fall short at the end of the month.

After the next five years, the plan aims to establish a rent or utility bank, reduce waiting lists, increase the supply of affordable housing and decrease the number of people who need emergency shelter.

Dyck said the plan’s partners are focused on their vision to make homelessness rare and brief and ensure it doesn’t re-occur.

“Or if they are, they’re treated well, with respect; we’re focusing on the person and getting them housed in a fashion that’s respectful and will ensure that they’re living healthy lives and we create a healthy community.”

tjames@postmedia.com

Twitter.com/thiajames