Drop In Programs
The Saskatoon Downtown Youth Centre Inc. (EGADZ) is situated in the downtown core of the city on the corner of 24th Street and 1st Avenue. It is distinguishable by the red and yellow banner at the entrance. The building provides 22,000 square feet of space over three levels. A very large parking lot is located on the north side of the building and is used for outside activities such as basketball, beach volleyball, sidewalk games, artwork and large gatherings in the summer. Staff and visitor parking is also available here. There is a wheelchair ramp located on the south side of the building.
The main floor affords a social area where contact is first made with the youth. Tables and chairs are set up in a coffee house atmosphere to enable youth to mingle or observe with a glass of water, pop or snack from the vending machines. A fooseball table, ping pong table, snooker and regular pool tables, comfortable furniture and a stereo sound system round out the social area. A "living room" area is set up complete with T.V. and V.C.R. for movie nights and for youth to keep up with televised world events.
The drop in area hosts a computer area that was made possible through Industry Canada in partnership with the Saskatoon Free Net. Youth can access computers and surf the net through high speed connections, or utilize them for various projects (resume writing, letter writing, academic learning programs or games). Youth are encouraged to utilize the computers and continue to utilize this area on a steady basis.
Posters and calendars of events and happenings, in addition to youth artwork, decorate the walls throughout the building.
The Center is afforded a great kitchen on the main floor, which through the financial support of the Saskatoon Foundation and an anonymous donor has recently been renovated. The kitchen is coordinated by the Youth Workers and Volunteers and serves a meal every day at 5pm for the youth.
Also located on the main floor are offices for the Client Services Coordinator, Youth Workers, Street Outreach, Operation Help Staff, and a counseling office.
Hours of Operation
Administration: Monday through Friday 8:00am-5:00pm
Center Drop In Hours: Monday through Friday 3:30pm-9:00pm
Saturday 1:00pm-9:00pm
Youth are able to access programs or services at anytime of the day Monday through Friday |
