Two Saskatoon group homes aim to support vulnerable youth

A $1.5 million project has come to life as two new youth group homes open in Saskatoon. Stacey Hein has the story.

Two new youth group homes aimed at supporting teens facing mental health and addictions challenges have opened in Saskatoon.

The $1.5 million EGADZ project, backed by federal and provincial funding and support from local philanthropists Wally and Colleen Mah, provides 10 spaces for youth aged 12 to 16.

Sixteen-year-old Izzy said hearing speakers at the grand opening Friday nearly brought her to tears.

“It means so much to me, how much a bunch of these adults are putting in... helping us get these homes for the youth,” she said.

Izzy is on the EGADZ Youth Advisory Committee, which helped shape both the design and operations of the homes.

“We talk and we figure out what you need and what we think would help all of us,” she said.

EGADZ executive director Don Meikle said youth input is key.

“Our young people are experts,” Meikle said. “They live in this stuff in 2026. They know what they need.”

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Meikle said the homes offer wraparound services.

“We have staff that will help them meet their needs,” he said. “Help get them to a place where they can either move on in our other programs or into the community.”

Saskatoon Mayor Cynthia Block said youth group homes are critical.

“Anything that we can do to prevent youth homelessness or to otherwise make sure that they get housed as quickly as possible improves not only their long-term outcome, which is the primary purpose, but also improves it for everyone else,” Block said.

Social Services Minister Terry Jenson said early intervention helps prevent vulnerable youth from falling into homelessness.

“We’re going to be able to protect and support youth that are vulnerable,” Jenson said.

EGADZ is also launching a housing initiative for those aged 16 to 21 this fall.