Sometimes the thought goes through Jason Hofley's mind that it would be easier to go back to drug dealing. Before he was busted for charges that included firearms and possession of drugs a few years ago, he had his children with him.

But after getting out of jail a year and a half ago, the 41-year-old Regina man has been homeless, living on welfare and out of his SUV, and unable to get his children back under his care.

"How can they expect me to afford a six-bedroom house on welfare or even child tax? It's impossible," he said, standing outside the Al Ritchie Community Association to collect food. The previous day, he and his partner tried to beat the 30 C heat out on the streets — while during the winter, they had to huddle under six blankets and deal with frostbite injuries.

"They're

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