The West Central Crisis and Family Support Centre marked a significant milestone with the grand opening of its new facility at 105 Colton Drive, Kindersley, celebrating 40 years of service to the community. This momentous event not only highlighted the centre’s enduring legacy but also its ongoing importance to families and individuals across western Saskatchewan and eastern Alberta.
For four decades, the centre has grown from a small operation to a critical lifeline, offering emergency support, counselling, and crisis intervention services. Starting with just an office and a handful of volunteers, the organization has evolved into a regional hub of support for those in need.
Board Chair Lori Mcmanus, reflected on its journey. "Forty years is a long time for a nonprofit to exist. To make it this far, we’ve relied on the support of volunteers, donors, and government funding. It’s a big deal," Mcmanus said. She also recalled the early days of the centre, which operated out of a beloved downtown building. "Despite its size, that building cast a long shadow," she noted, describing the centre’s early impact on the community.
As the demand for services grew, the limitations of the original building became clear. After years of fundraising and support, the vision for a larger, more functional space became a reality thanks to the generous donation of a building and land. The journey wasn’t without its challenges. "We had to physically move the building, and that process came with its own set of crises," Mcmanus shared, recalling moments like melted drywall and water in the basement. "But thanks to the unwavering support from the community, we got here."
The new facility offers a range of services, including crisis response, counselling, and family support, as well as bed space for high-risk clients and visitation rooms for families undergoing reunification. It also includes a forensic interview room, which has already been utilized in several cases since opening.
Mcmanus emphasized the crucial role of local partnerships in making the new building a reality, offering deep gratitude to the Town of Kindersley, the Rural Municipality of Kindersley, and local businesses. "We wouldn’t have been able to finish the basement, let alone open the doors, without their support," she said.
The grand opening event also recognized key contributors, including past board members and local contractors like Dale Clarkson, who constructed the building’s stairs, and Budget Blinds, who donated blinds for the downstairs rooms.
Executive Director Michelle Webber reflected on the importance of the new facility, describing it as a "pilot building" that lays the foundation for future expansions. "This is just the beginning," Webber said, highlighting plans for additional buildings to further support the centre’s mission. She praised the community for its support, noting that the centre is now better equipped to serve those in need.
Webber also addressed the challenges they faced during construction, including setbacks caused by the pandemic. "It really is our pride and joy because we can put our full staff under one roof and better serve the public," she said.
The grand opening was not just a celebration of the past 40 years but a promise of continued service. Local officials attended the event, recognizing the centre’s role in supporting the region’s residents, especially during difficult times. The public was invited to tour the new facility, meet staff, and learn more about the services available.
As the day concluded, Mcmanus expressed heartfelt thanks to the community, donors, and supporters. "We don’t have a ‘thank you’ big enough for everyone who helped us get here," she said. "But what we can do is continue to open our doors and provide a safe space for those in need."
With a new building and four decades of experience behind them, the West Central Crisis and Family Support Centre is poised to continue its mission, serving individuals and families across the region for many more years to come.
