(Image Credit: File Photo/CHAT News)

By Jesse Gill

Vulnerable Population

The Mustard Seed’s funding shifts in April to support long-term housing

Mar 31, 2026 | 1:54 PM

The Mustard Seed in Medicine Hat will look to transition shelter guests into long-term housing over the coming months.

Funding for additional beds at their shelter in Medicine Hat comes to an end with the start of April, reducing the shelter capacity to 30 beds from the 50 that were available to fill the need during the cooler months.

“This year, thanks to Emergency Winter Response funding and the strong support of our community, we were able to ensure that every vulnerable Hatter who came through our doors this winter had access to shelter,” said a spokesperson with The Mustard Seed on behalf of the organization.

“Although this Emergency Winter Response funding comes to an end on April 1, our commitment to the community continues,” they added.

“As temperatures rise and the need for overflow capacity decreases, we are pleased to shift our focus toward longer-term stability.”

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The Alberta Government’s Diversion funding begins on April 1 for the organization.

“We will be able to support at least 24 individuals with rental assistance, helping them transition into safer, more stable housing,” the spokesperson said.

“We already have several guests showing interest or engaging in this process.”

They said that the shelter will continue to provide overflow capacity, as they have in the past, should the need arise.

“Last night, 36 individuals stayed in the shelter, and we remain committed to meeting their needs with compassion and care,” the spokesperson said.

“Shelter guests were notified of this change one week in advance through posted notices, which also included information about available housing supports.”