From 1887, when the members of Augustine United Church first started to gather together in worship, the congregation has been deeply committed to social justice and improving lives in Winnipeg. It has always been a congregation defined by its open hearts, open arms, and open doors.

At Augustine United, this challenge has been seen as an opportunity to re-imagine itself not as landlord, but as a partner in a robust and dynamic community centre. As a founding partner in Augustine Centre, Augustine United Church will continue to promote justice and kindness, changing lives for the better along the way.

“We've been part of the church for 60 years and it has always been a congregation that has asked the big questions in life, that has welcomed people who have been unjustly marginalized, and that has looked beyond its own walls with a desire to make the community a batter place. The development of Augustine Centre reflects the values that have always defined our church."

Helen and Keith Black

Members, Augustine United Church

S.P.LA.S.H. Early Learning Centre delivers a curriculum that features nature-based experiences, gardening, and an urban Forest School program. S.PLASH. incorporates random acts of kindness, and the program is deeply influenced by Indigenous teachings and open to children and families of all backgrounds.

S.P.L.A.S.H. opened in Augustine Centre in early 2022 with 92 badly needed daycare spaces for Osborne Village. The families come from many different cultural backgrounds and different socio-economic backgrounds. The centre is full and there is already a waiting list.

“My daughter is only two-years-old, but she is already thriving in S.P.LA.S.H.'s creative and inclusive environment. I really like the centre's focus on outdoor programming and building relationships in the community. My daughter is learning respect and kindness, the staff are phenomenal, and the program aligns beautifully with my family's values. Augustine Centre and S.P.LA.S.H. are making a real difference for families with young children in the neighbourhood.”

Julia Peristerakis

Parent of a S.P.LA.S.H. Child Care student

It started with a few cups of coffee served with a smile by church volunteers over 40 years ago. Today, Oak Table serves over 30,000 meals a year and offers a rich slate of programs and services to hundreds of vulnerable Winnipeggers. As a partner in the new Augustine Centre initiative, Oak Table has moved into the bright, modernized lower level of 444 River Avenue with capacity for 75 guests plus volunteers.

The staff and volunteers of Oak Table see the person, not just the hunger. With compassion and commitment, Oak Table improves lives. And as a founding partner of Augustine Centre, Oak Table will thrive for many years to come.

Programs

  • Food is the cornerstone of the Oak Table program, with lunch served Monday to Thursday and two breakfast sittings on Friday. During the worst parts of the COVID-19 pandemic, when gathering in large groups was not allowed, Oak Table volunteers served up thousands of bagged lunches for people who would have otherwise not eaten.

  • An Indigenous program staff member helps guests re-connect with their culture, their language, and their traditional ways, including smudging and sharing circles. (It is estimated that about 80% of Oak Table's guests are Indigenous.)

  • Musical programming, including karaoke, brings joy and laughter.

  • In cooperation with Oak Table, 1justCity operates Just a Warm Sleep each winter, providing sleeping space, meals, showers, and laundry for up to 30 people.

  • For Winnipeg's homeless and most vulnerable citizens, healthy feet are a necessity for transportation and well-being, Recognizing the need, Oak Table offers foot care with registered nurses twice monthly.

  • Oak Table supports its guests with concrete responses to public health issues. Through COVID-19, for example, Oak Table ran nine vaccination clinics and worked with local pharmacists, resulting in 571 people receiving their proof-of-vaccination cards.

  • Many of Oak Table's guests live with addictions and mental health challenges, many stemming from intergenerational trauma and the impacts of residential schools. Oak Table connects guests with appropriate services and medical care whenever necessary.

  • Oak Table's art program helps guests express themselves, find peace and calm, and explore their creativity.