With temperatures beginning to drop across Saskatchewan, a volunteer organization is stepping up to make sure Saskatoon’s most vulnerable residents aren’t left out in the cold.
Bridge City Warmth (BCW) was founded earlier this year, and is a registered non-profit dedicated to supporting the city’s unhoused population through the collection and distribution of warm clothing, food, and other essential items. The group’s mission is simple but powerful – to bridge the gap between those who want to help and those who need it most.
According to the 2024 Point-in-Time Count, an estimated 1,500 people in Saskatoon are currently experiencing homelessness, which is nearly triple the number recorded in 2022. This figure includes individuals and families living in emergency shelters, transitional housing, encampments, and hidden homelessness.
Recognizing this growing crisis, BCW’s founding members came together with a shared goal: to make a real, tangible impact on the lives of those struggling to stay warm and fed.
BCW began by collecting donations of warm winter gear, blankets, toiletries, and gift cards for food, distributing these directly to individuals living outdoors. In one recent visit, volunteers connected with two couples living in an encampment, delivering food, snacks, water, jackets, gloves, and blankets, with promises to return with more.
To sustain their efforts, Bridge City Warmth runs several creative fundraising initiatives. From October 26–30, BCW will be hosting a Facebook Auction, where community members can bid on donated items to raise vital funds for the organization’s outreach programs. Those wishing to contribute can donate new or unused items, gift cards, or handmade goods for the auction. Pickup for donations can be arranged directly through BCW.
Local businesses have also rallied behind the cause. Black Pepper Pizza in Saskatoon is currently running a coat drive in partnership with BCW, offering a free medium pepperoni or cheese pizza to anyone who donates a winter coat on October 11–12.
BCW welcomes all forms of community support, from donating gently used winter gear to contributing financially. Monetary donations can be sent via e-transfer to bridgecitywarmth@gmail.com, and physical donations can be dropped off at designated locations in Saskatoon and Martensville (provided upon request).
As winter settles in, BCW continues to serve as a vital reminder of what’s possible when a community comes together — not just to give warmth, but to share it.
For more information, donation details, or volunteer opportunities, find Bridge City Warmth on social media or contact bridgecitywarmth@gmail.com.
