If you happen to find yourself in downtown Saskatoon, you may notice a new street team making the rounds.

The Indigenous Peacekeepers pilot project, launched two weeks ago, aims to collect data, build trust between the vulnerable population and authority, while also providing direction, transportation, and a friendly smile to those who need it most.

Director of Emergency Management Pamela Goulden-McLeod says in teams of two, the peacekeepers will peruse the Riversdale and Downtown business improvement districts, connecting with and directing members of the community to the services they require.”

“They can provide transportation if somebody is having a tough time and they’re downtown, and they need to get to a location that provides services, like a drop-in centre or a public washroom.”

The teams are not in uniform, but they don City of Saskatoon vests with ‘Support Team’ written on the back.

She says the four workers had to undergo ‘a ton of training’ before hitting the streets.

“They have first aid, CPR, AED, and Naloxone training. They’re trained in trauma-informed practices. They have a vulnerable security sector clearance. They’re learning verbal judo, conflict resolution.”

The 1-year pilot project is costing the city $300,000, with plans to expand the project if successful.