HOMEBASE MJ launches September programming with daily youth support services

Homebase Moose Jaw has released its most extensive programming schedule to date, offering daily support services and specialized programming designed to address mental health, employment readiness, creative expression, and social connection for youth aged 12 to 25.

The downtown youth hub at 52 High Street West operates six days a week with expanded hours — Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Tuesday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Thursday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Saturday from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Core drop-in services include Peer Support and Mental Strength & Wellbeing Support available throughout operating hours, providing youth with immediate access to trained staff and mental health resources.

New structured programming this September includes several age-specific groups addressing social development and leadership skills:

• Social Skills 101, an eight-week program for youth aged 12 to 14, begins September 10th and runs Wednesdays from 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. The program focuses on friendship building and conflict resolution through games and discussion.
• For older youth, Expressive Art and Self-exploration starts September 11th for ages 15 to 17, meeting Thursdays from 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. The eight-week program uses creative art, music, movement, and writing to help participants explore identity and emotional connection.
• A four-week Leadership Group for youth aged 12 to 17 runs Saturdays from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. throughout September, building confidence and teamwork skills through interactive activities.

The facility has expanded its creative programming with local artist Jess Zoerb, offering both one-on-one Art Mentorship sessions and group Creative Play workshops. Individual mentorship is available Tuesdays from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. and Fridays from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

A Creative Play session featuring paint pouring takes place September 19th at 4 p.m., designed for youth of all skill levels. September also features themed DIY activities in the Art Room on Monday evenings from 4 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., including stress ball creation, sticker making, plushie crafting, and bracelet making.

The centre's employment support has expanded with Future Shift programming, offering education support and three-step employment coaching. The program includes resume writing, interview practice, and certification opportunities, available through both drop-in and appointment services.

Gaming and recreational activities include Nintendo Switch competitions featuring games like Super Smash Bros, Mario Party, and Mario Kart, alongside VR gaming sessions and computer gaming time. The facility's golf simulator remains available for free 60-minute bookings by youth on weekdays.

Homebase partners with multiple community organizations to provide specialized services:

• Saskatchewan Health Authority Mental Health and Addictions offers drop-in counselling Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., addressing anxiety, depression, stress management, and substance use concerns.
• The Nest Health Centre provides primary care services including sexual health and mental health support through appointment-only sessions on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Autism Services operates Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 1 p.m. to 4:30 p.m., providing flexible support for youth aged 12 to 19 with autism in a non-judgmental environment.
• The Moose Jaw Multicultural Council offers Newcomer Support drop-in services Tuesdays and Thursdays from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m., connecting newcomer youth with settlement workers.

Special events this month include a Truth & Reconciliation Day ceremony September 30th from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m., featuring the Kawakatoose Boys Singers and Dance Troupe.

For youth aged 18 to 25, Peer Vibes offers weekly connection time Wednesdays from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., while the HOMEBASE Monthly Mixer provides social opportunities with appetizers and mocktails on the last Thursday of each month at 6 p.m.

The facility also supports parents through a monthly support group for caregivers of at-risk teens, meeting the last Saturday of each month from 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m.

All programming is free, with some specialized services requiring registration through regina.ymca.ca or by calling 306-694-5554. The scope reflects Homebase's role as a centralized hub addressing virtually every need Moose Jaw youth might have through collaborative community partnerships. Learn more at homebasesask.ca/hubs/moose-jaw.