The affordable suites in Orange Buffalo Lodge are expected to open by mid 2026. The main floor Community Hub business plan feasibility and funding plan is currently under development and will be presented to the City.
NCFC and a group of like-minded community organizations are planning to develop the 6,000 square foot main floor area into a community hub with a community kitchen, laundromat, offices, counselling rooms, a health clinical office, shared community space, and food-recovery storage. These investments are not included in the city’s commitment to finishing the affordable suites.
| Description | Purpose |
| Laundry Lounge | A place for residents to do their laundry and interact. A potential social enterprise for a drycleaning business that could provide employment opportunities for residents and for the Building Employment through Skills and Training (BEST) Youth Program. |
| Support Services Centre | A team of case workers and community partners (mental health workers, public health nurse, nutritionist/dietician, first responders, Elders, mentors, various educators) who work to support residents and deliver programs and services to the community. |
| Communal Kitchen | A vital hub for fostering a sense of community and promoting overall well-being. A place for residents to learn and develop culinary skills, host cooking classes, nutrition workshops, and demonstrations to empower residents with the knowledge and tools to make healthy and affordable meals. It is designed to serve multiple functions and can double as a gathering space for community events, meetings, and celebrations, creating a versatile and dynamic environment. |
| Multi-Purpose Centre | A versatile space that aims to create a vibrant and inclusive community that meets the diverse needs of the residents. It is designed to bring people together, foster a sense of community, and provide essential services and resources. The hub will bring together community partners and volunteers to offer social and recreational activities; educational and skill building programs; community services such as health clinics or giveaways; employment support; cultural and artistic expression; events, meetings, celebrations and gathering spaces. |
| Communal Meeting Area | This is a perfect place for people to gather, socialize, and enjoy refreshments and meals together. A place for residents to have meetings, or enjoy the company of a visitor. There will be diverse seating options such as booths, couches, and tables. |
| 24/7 Support On-site and Nearby | The space will be well activated throughout the days with programming and support staff. The intention is to have an overnight ambassador/security guard to provide a sense of safety to the residents and deter opportunities for crime. A good partnership with mental health teams and first responders can assist in the safety of community members, the building and its residents. |
| Additional Community Services | A clinical room on site equipped for a nurse practitioner to be provided by the Saskatchewan Health Authority for primary care, subscriptions, referrals and vaccinations, etc. A number of shared counselling rooms for the University of Regina social work staff, other mental health workers, and counsellors to meet with community residents who need support. Use the multipurpose space for support groups led by the university and other organizations’ expertise and staff. Enhanced food distribution from the kitchen and oversized freezer and refrigerator by expanding partnerships with Regina Food Bank and food rescued from participating grocery stores. |
