1975 — The Oxford House Model is Born

In Maryland, USA, Paul Molloy was living in a halfway house that was forced to close due to government funding cuts. Rather than disband, Molloy and other residents took over the lease and formed what would become the first Oxford House.
From these early efforts came the core principles still used today:

• Democratically-run by residents

• Independent operations between houses

• Financial self-sufficiency

While domestic and daily house operations are still managed by residents, broader financial, clerical, and maintenance support is provided by an overseeing Board and staff.

 

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1994 — Oxford House Begins Canadian Expansion

Inspired by the success of the model in the U.S., a group in Alberta began exploring how to bring this “revolution in recovery” north.

 

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February 1995 — Oxford House Foundation of Canada Incorporated

A volunteer Board of Directors formed, and the Oxford House Foundation of Canada was officially incorporated under Alberta’s Societies Act.

 

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1995 — First Canadian Oxford House Opens

The first Oxford House in Canada opened its doors in Calgary as a house for women in recovery. This marked the start of what would become a large and impactful network.

 

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October 1997 — Charitable Status Granted

Oxford House Foundation of Canada received CRA charitable status, strengthening its ability to fundraise and serve more communities.

 

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2010 — Oxford House Saskatchewan Opens

Oxford House Saskatchewan launched with its first residence in Regina, delivering third stage housing — an essential stage in recovery where residents can live independently in a sober environment after treatment.

 

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2018 — Expansion in Regina

Five Oxford Houses were active in Regina, offering a total of 25 beds:

• 4 Houses for men

• 1 House for women

This marked significant growth and a rising demand for recovery housing.

 

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2019 — Name Change to Reflect Provincial Reach

The organization officially became Oxford House Saskatchewan, signaling its broader commitment to supporting recovery across the entire province.

 

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2021 — First Houses Open in Saskatoon

Oxford House expanded to Saskatoon with:

• 2 Houses for men

• 1 House for women
  One of these was Alexander’s House, an early and meaningful part of the Saskatoon community’s recovery journey.

 

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2022 — Saskatoon Grows to 5 Houses

Two additional homes were opened in Saskatoon, bringing the city’s total to 5 and the province-wide capacity to 50 beds.

 

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Today — Strength Through Experience and Purpose

Oxford House Saskatchewan:

• Operates 10 residences in Regina and Saskatoon

• Provides supportive, affordable, and sober housing

• Maintains CRA-registered charitable status

• Has developed a robust strategic plan, property management framework, and evidence-backed programming

With a focus on third stage housing, Oxford House Saskatchewan supports people who often arrive without income or stability and need time, structure, and community to rebuild their lives.

The long-term vision includes expansion into more Saskatchewan communities, helping break the cycle of addiction and homelessness through stability and hope.