The newly opened Kikakihtânaw Centre for Women and Families in Regina aims to provide support to vulnerable women, children, and families facing homelessness or violence. Located at 2817 12th Ave, the facility offers a range of valuable services under one roof to address the barriers that these individuals often encounter. YWCA Regina CEO Melissa Coomber-Bendtsen noted that since opening, the women at the centre have been able to offer each other support in a different way, showcasing the positive impact of the new facility.
For YWCA resident Tanya Bunnie, the centre provided a fresh start after living on the streets and in and out of shelters. She described the centre as feeling like home, with no barriers and a welcoming atmosphere. Bunnie expressed gratitude towards the YWCA for pushing her towards opportunities for self-improvement in various areas of her life. Since becoming a resident, she has even started leading beading and ribbon skirt making lessons within the facility, showcasing the positive impact of the centre on its residents.
Funded through donations, community partners, and government support, the $70-million Kikakihtânaw Centre for Women and Families offers a broad range of services aimed at empowering women, children, and families in need. Coomber-Bendtsen highlighted the sense of hope that the centre has already instilled in the women they are serving, emphasizing the importance of creating an environment where individuals feel supported and encouraged to thrive. The opening of the centre represents a significant step towards providing comprehensive support to those facing challenges in Regina.
The impact of the Kikakihtânaw Centre for Women and Families goes beyond providing physical shelter to vulnerable individuals in Regina. By offering a range of services under one roof, the centre enables residents to access the support they need to improve their overall well-being. Bunnie’s story serves as a testament to the transformative effect of the centre, as she went from living on the streets to becoming actively involved in leading creative workshops within the facility. The sense of community and empowerment fostered by the centre is evident in the positive changes seen in its residents.
The YWCA’s commitment to supporting vulnerable populations in Regina is reflected in the opening of the Kikakihtânaw Centre for Women and Families. By providing a safe and welcoming space for individuals facing homelessness and violence, the centre plays a vital role in empowering women, children, and families to lead more fulfilling lives. The multi-million-dollar facility serves as a tangible example of the community coming together to address the needs of its most vulnerable members, with government, donors, and partners all contributing to make the centre a reality.
In conclusion, the opening of the Kikakihtânaw Centre for Women and Families in Regina represents a significant milestone in providing comprehensive support to vulnerable women, children, and families in the community. Through a combination of funding from donors, community partners, and government sources, the $70-million facility offers a wide range of services to address the barriers faced by individuals fleeing homelessness or violence. The positive impact of the centre is already evident in the stories of residents like Tanya Bunnie, who have found a sense of home, support, and empowerment within its walls. As the centre continues to serve those in need, it is poised to make a lasting difference in the lives of its residents and the broader community of Regina.
