Youth Helping Shape FUSION Plus as Program Moves Closer to Opening

CANADA, October 16 - Released on October 15, 2026

Earlier this year, the Government of Saskatchewan and EGADZ announced plans for FUSION Plus, a new supported housing initiative for up to 40 youth currently or previously in the care of the Ministry of Social Services to successfully transition to independence. Today, partners gathered to highlight the progress that has been made since that announcement, and the important role young people continue to play in shaping the program as it moves closer to opening later this year. 

"What I find most inspiring about FUSION Plus is that young people are not simply recipients of the program. They are helping to shape it," Social Services Minister Terry Jenson said. "FUSION Plus is designed to connect housing with education, employment and opportunities, giving young people the tools they need to build confidence, achieve independence and reach their full potential." 

FUSION Plus will provide housing and comprehensive supports for up to 40 youth between the ages of 16 and 21. Building on the success of the original FUSION program, the initiative is designed to combine stable housing with life skills development, education supports, employment readiness programming and wellness services. Partners have continued work on facility renovations, staffing, program development and service planning, while maintaining a strong focus on youth engagement throughout the process. 

One of the defining features of FUSION Plus is the involvement of young people in its development. Members of the Saskatoon Youth Advisory Team have helped guide program planning and design, ensuring the initiative reflects the needs, experiences and aspirations of the youth it is intended to serve. 

"Working at FUSION Plus has given me the opportunity to build confidence and life skills and is showing me that working in the trades is something that I want to pursue," youth team member Lexi Crain said. "Once FUSION Plus is open, I will be living there and expanding my future dreams."

"FUSION Plus has given me the opportunity to realize my other skills. With working at FUSION Plus it is helping me with my future goals as an entrepreneur," youth team member Gavin Lacendre said. "My life is changing where I can spend more time with my family and opening up a whole new world."

"FUSION Plus will open up opportunity and hope for our young people," EGADZ Executive Director Don Meikle said. "While the challenges will be difficult, the outcomes will provide our youth with support needed to become contributing citizens at a time when Saskatchewan needs skilled people. If we do not assist young people now, the homelessness problem will only continue to grow. With all the support and partnerships we are receiving with this project, the future is brighter for these young people and future generations."

FUSION Plus is being developed through a partnership involving EGADZ, the ministries of Social Services, Health and Immigration and Career Training, Foundations Learning, Saskatoon Housing Initiatives Partnership (SHIP) and community partners. 

Once completed, FUSION Plus will provide youth aged 16 to 21 with supported housing designed to combine stable housing with wraparound supports that aid in developing life skills, employment readiness and educational assistance.

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