Regina opens a permanent 50-bed shelter July 28, replacing The Nest, with full support services to address growing homelessness in the city.
Permanent Facility to Replace Temporary Shelter
Regina’s ongoing response to homelessness takes a major step forward with the official opening of a new permanent emergency shelter on July 28, 2025. The New Beginnings Enhanced Emergency Shelter will provide 50 beds and essential services, replacing the temporary facility at The Nest Health Centre.
Location and Facility Details
Located on the former Eagles Club site in Regina’s Heritage neighbourhood, the shelter will operate under the Regina Treaty/Status Indian Services (RTSIS). The facility includes a kitchen providing three meals daily, showers, laundry, and bathrooms, as well as a common area and cultural programming.
Addressing Community Needs
The permanent facility comes at a time when Regina faces a homelessness crisis. According to the latest Point-in-Time count from October 2024, 824 individuals were experiencing homelessness—an increase of 255% since 2015. The shelter’s services include addiction support and harm reduction programs, in a low-barrier, privacy-oriented setting.
Funding and Government Support
The $6.8 million project is funded through a multi-level government partnership. The federal government contributed $4.1 million, while the Province of Saskatchewan provided a $3 million forgivable loan. The City of Regina, which owns the building, will fund the $1 million annual operational cost.
Community Impact and Long-Term Vision
“This isn’t just a shelter—it’s a signal,” said Mayor Chad Bachynski. “A signal that we take homelessness seriously and are committed to long-term solutions.” The shelter’s location—one block from the Regina Police Service headquarters—was approved by a 9–2 city council vote in September 2024, following extensive public consultation.
Transition from The Nest and Future Plans
Once current clients are relocated, the temporary New Beginnings site at The Nest will close. Though no additional beds are being added, shelter director Natasha Kennedy emphasized that no one will be turned away. Staff will coordinate with other facilities when capacity is reached.
“Having permanency lets us better serve vulnerable community members,” Kennedy said. “It’s about meeting people where they are, and building from there.”
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