The Temporary Emergency Shelter, known as “The Gathering Place: New Beginnings,” will continue operating at The Nest in downtown Regina until the summer of 2025.
“New Beginnings” provides our community’s most vulnerable residents with shelter and professional wrap-around services to help address root causes of houselessness.
The Government of Saskatchewan, City of Regina, Regina Treaty/Status Indian Services (RT/SIS) and The Nest Health Centre are collaborating on the initiative in response to an immediate need as existing shelters face capacity issues.
The temporary shelter is leased by the City and managed and operated by RT/SIS. The shelter fills the immediate shortage of short-term emergency shelters and longer-term solutions continue to be explored. Professional wrap-around services to support shelter residents are available on-site.
Contact
The Gathering Place: New Beginnings
2400-13th Avenue
Call 306.559.5948.
It is a 24-7 facility that is first come, first served.
By the end of 2023, the City of Regina will have invested approximately $1 million in the “New Beginnings” temporary shelter.
Moving into 2024, the City’s continuing monthly expenses are expected to be approximately $60,000. This funding covers the cost to run the facility, but does not pay for shelter operations or programming.
The City is proud to continue to play its role -- alongside the provincial government, community-based organizations, and our community as a whole -- to ensure the temporary shelter remains available to those who need it this winter.
City Council has directed Administration to secure a location for a permanent emergency shelter before the end of 2023. That work continues, and an announcement will be made when an agreement is reached.
Working with other levels of government and community partners to improve safety and well-being for all residents is a priority for the City.
Find commonly asked questions and answers about the temporary shelter.
For how long will the shelter be operational?
The shelter opened on January 30, 2023, and is scheduled to remain open until the summer of 2025.
How many people does it serve?
The shelter provides 55 spaces.
Why is this a good space?
This temporary lease of 26,000 sq ft on the main floor of the building includes offices and a gym area for the communal shelter. It can accommodate counselling rooms and other supportive agencies to come on-site for one-on-ones. There is existing access to showers and washroom facilities, as well as a kitchen. It’s also centrally located, close to other support services, amenities and transit.
What else is in The NEST Health Centre?
The leased space is on the main floor of the building where there are currently no other tenants in that space. The previous tenant has moved to a different location. The Nest Health Centre has other programs and services in different areas of the building.
Could this turn into a permanent shelter?
City Council directed Administration to secure a location for a permanent shelter before the end of 2023. At this time, no formal agreement is in place. Work to reach that goal has been taking place all year. When an agreement is reached, an announcement will be made.
The Province recently announced new funding for homelessness. When will see additional shelter spaces in Regina?
The City of Regina welcomes the Government of Saskatchewan’s recently announced investments in an Action Plan for Mental Health and Addictions, and a Provincial Approach to Homelessness. Details about specific programs and services and programs made possible by these new investments will be shared when available.
What has the $1 million in 2023, and the $60 thousand per month in 2024, been spent on?
The City’s role with the temporary shelter is the space itself. The costs we cover include the lease, utilities, and upgrades required for it to function as a shelter.
Nearby residents and businesses say the area has become unsafe because of the shelter. What’s being done to improve safety in that neighbourhood this winter?
We understand that caring for the most vulnerable members of our community comes along with some challenges. The City is in direct contact with residents and business owners in the area who have expressed concerns. The Province recently announced $19 million to enhance community safety and outreach responses related to shelters. The City will work with the Province to access those funds intended to enhance community safety. The City will always be at the table when it comes to community safety and well-being. We’ll bring together residents, stakeholders, community-based organizations, law enforcement, and other levels of government to meet these challenges.
Will there be security?
RT/SIS operates the shelter and is responsible for all internal security services for a 24/7 presence in the building. The City provided a security camera system to help with monitoring and will provide contracted security to patrol the area outside the building. Regina Police Services may also have an increased presence in the neighbourhood to enhance the safety and well-being of the shelter residents, staff and neighbours.
How was this space chosen?
Several sites were considered. This space was the best fit for rapid conversion into a functioning temporary shelter.
