Edmonton — The downtown core in Edmonton will have an improved facility for an essential range of programs and services after a combined investment of more than $45 million from the federal government and the Boyle Street Community Services.
Announced by Minister Randy Boissonnault and Jordan Reiniger, Executive Director, Boyle Street Community Services, this new building space will be better suited to providing health and community supports for those experiencing homelessness and poverty in the growing downtown region of Edmonton.
The new okimaw peyesew kamik (King Thunderbird Centre) will be an energy-efficient and accessible facility that replaces the former community centre building. The new facility will provide essential healthand housing support services while supporting Edmonton’s vulnerable community all under one roof. Located just two blocks north of the former space, the Centre will have private outdoor space for ceremonies and land-based healing, as well as 75,000 square feet of indoor space, including a triage area for people awaiting health support and services. Improvements to this solution-oriented and innovative space includes better accessibility to services on the main floor and the incorporation of important aspects of Indigenous culture and ceremony throughout. The upgraded building will be net-zero carbon and will serve as headquarters to Boyle Street Community Services..
For over 50 years, the work of Boyle Street Community Services have been impactful for those experiencing homelessness and poverty. This new facility will allow the Boyle Street Community Services to continue its longstanding work in the community offering essential programs like basic needs support, health services, substance-use support, ID and financial services, cultural healing, and essential amenities.
“Through this major investment in the new okimaw peyesew kamik (King Thunderbird Centre) in Edmonton, the federal government is delivering for downtown Edmonton. Ensuring the important work of Boyle Street Community Services can continue in one centralized location that provides a reliable and safe space for the community will make our downtown a safer, more vibrant place to work and live. This world-class facility is being built to better accommodate the unique needs of a vulnerable population and will provide dignified support to those who need it most in our city.” – Randy Boissonnault, Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Official Languages, on behalf of Sean Fraser, Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities