A CHANCE TO CHANGE
Readers of the Saskatoon StarPhoenix and the Regina Leader-Post have been watching the fortunes of Mary-Ann and Jonathan McLeod — a mother and son who were left homeless this week — unfold. It’s been a roller-coaster of a ride.
Last week, reporter Alex MacPherson wrote about the horrible conditions of their Saskatoon apartment. Health inspectors found it unfit for habitation, and the landlord issued an eviction notice.
Both the McLeods are enrolled in the government-run Saskatchewan Assured Income for Disability program for support. He has cerebral palsy and arthritis; she uses a wheelchair.
In this story, and in the lives of the McLeods, both good news and bad news can be found.
Bad news: Clear, gaping holes in the social safety net of this province are revealed. After being suddenly evicted from their home, the McLeods were given a choice: Separate in order to stay in gender-specific shelters or find their own accommodations. They ended up outside for at least three cold autumn nights. Our system should be able to accommodate keeping a caregiver and a family member together.
Good news: The StarPhoenix was flooded with readers who were concerned about the family and wanted to help. It was the efforts of a local affordable housing organization and a Calgary-based real estate company that provided temporary shelter and allowed them to both get out of the elements and stay together. Today, they are safe, warm and have the basics of food and shelter. The spirit of generosity Saskatchewan is known for is alive and well.
Bad news: This family’s story made it clear that safe, affordable housing is still an issue despite a relatively high vacancy rate, and declining rental rates. It took the publicity of a media outlet to prompt action from municipal officials on the unfit apartment. There are very likely more families putting up with substandard accommodations.
Good news: This story has the potential to make a difference. The fact the McLeods were willing to share their journey means their issues have caught the attention of people in a position to effect change.
“We’re always looking to improve our performance in how we support people,” Jeff Redekop, the Saskatchewan Ministry of Social Services’ executive director of income assistance said. “... So there’s always an opportunity to learn and improve.” Clearly, the opportunity to improve is a big one.
So far, the ending for the McLeods is a happy one. It will be even happier if change results in a better, safer system for vulnerable people in the province.