File Photo/CHAT News

By Jesse Gill

SHELTER LOCATION

New Mustard Seed location in Medicine Hat being considered

Aug 28, 2025 | 12:46 PM

The City of Medicine Hat and the Mustard Seed are one step closer to determining a new shelter location.

It became evident to both the city and the Mustard Seed in 2024 that the 24/7 shelter locations located in residential areas were not ideal, dealing considering the increased traffic and changing demographics of the clients being served.

The Mustard Seed and the city also came to an agreement that if possible, the provincially funded 24/7 shelter services in Medicine Hat should be located at a single location.

“The collaboration between the City, the province, and our community partners has never been stronger,” The Mustard Seed CEO James Gardner.

“This united effort has enabled us to secure a single, cohesive location where we can continue serving those in need.”

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Over the last six months, at the request of Alberta government, the City and the Mustard Seed have worked together to determine a more suitable location for the shelter.

“Medicine Hat has always come together to look out for our neighbours. I’m grateful to the City of Medicine Hat and the Mustard Seed for identifying a new, expanded shelter location,” Cypress-Medicine Hat MLA Justin Wright said.

“This practical, compassionate step will save lives while respecting the needs the larger community,” he added.

“When we work together, we can deliver safe, dignified, recovery-oriented solutions for those who need them most.”

Several properties were evaluated and parties have agreed to explore 2055 Saamis Dr. NW as a potential location.

The property is owned by the city, with the long-term tenant deciding to relocate, the city said it provides a timely opportunity to repurpose the property for the shelter at a single location.

“We are very excited to have reached this point in our joint discussions – particularly with winter just around the corner,” said Mayor Linnsie Clark.

“We’re looking forward to further collaboration with the Mustard Seed and other partners to ensure this important service operates successfully in our community.”

A number of steps would need to take place for this to happen, including an application to rezone from highway commercial, and a development permit application from the Mustard Seed.

The city will have several recommendation brought to council to consider for approval this fall, providing an opportunity for debate of the merits of the proposed location and to gain feedback from the community through public hearings.

“This milestone reflects the longstanding spirit of collaboration in our community. Securing access to a 24/7 shelter with appropriate supports for individuals facing housing instability is a vital step forward. Together with the City of Medicine Hat, The Mustard Seed, the Government of Alberta, and our community partners we are advancing a recovery-focused solution that addresses urgent needs while respecting the broader community.” – Jaime Rogers, Manager of Homeless and Housing Development, Medicine Hat Community Housing Society

The city has a community shelters webpage to provide additional information to the public.