In a landmark development for Winnipeg’s 2SLGBTQ+ community, government officials announced Wednesday that funding for the long-anticipated Manitoba Pride Hub has reached $2.5 million, bringing the inclusive downtown space closer to reality. This significant financial commitment marks a pivotal moment in Manitoba’s ongoing efforts to create dedicated spaces for marginalized communities.
The federal government has committed $1.25 million through PrairiesCan, matching the province’s previous contribution of $1.25 million announced last June. The substantial funding package will transform the three-story building at 280 Smith Street into what organizers envision as a “place of pride” – a central hub for community services, programming, and connection.
“This investment represents more than just a building – it’s about creating a safe, welcoming space where people can access essential services and build community,” explained Mike Tutthill, executive director of Rainbow Resource Centre, during Wednesday’s announcement.
The Pride Hub aims to address critical gaps in support for Manitoba’s 2SLGBTQ+ community, particularly in healthcare access, mental health services, and community programming. According to statistics shared by project leaders, 2SLGBTQ+ individuals face disproportionately higher rates of mental health challenges, housing insecurity, and barriers to appropriate healthcare – making centralized support services increasingly vital.
Dan Vandal, federal Minister responsible for PrairiesCan, emphasized the economic benefits alongside the social impact. “This hub will not only provide essential services, but will contribute to downtown revitalization efforts, create jobs, and strengthen Winnipeg’s economic and cultural landscape,” Vandal stated.
The 33,000-square-foot facility will house multiple organizations under one roof, including Rainbow Resource Centre, Pride Winnipeg, Out There Winnipeg, and Two-Spirited People of Manitoba. This collaborative approach aims to streamline service delivery while creating a more accessible support network.
“By bringing these organizations together, we’re creating an ecosystem of support that can more effectively address the complex needs of our community,” noted Tutthill. “From youth programming to elder care, from healthcare navigation to community celebrations – this hub will be transformative.”
While the $2.5 million represents substantial progress, fundraising efforts continue as organizers work toward their $7.5 million target to complete renovations and program development. Community organizations have launched public campaigns seeking additional private donations to bridge the remaining funding gap.
Construction is expected to begin this summer, with a projected opening in late 2025 or early 2026. When completed, the Pride Hub will be among the largest dedicated 2SLGBTQ+ community spaces in Canada, joining similar initiatives in Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal.
The funding announcement comes amid growing concerns about rising anti-2SLGBTQ+ incidents across Canada, with advocacy organizations reporting a 64% increase in documented hate crimes targeting gender and sexual minorities since 2019. In this context, project leaders emphasize the importance of creating visible, permanent spaces for community resilience.
As Manitoba moves forward with this initiative, the question remains: How might this centralized approach to community support services become a model for other Canadian cities working to address the unique challenges faced by marginalized populations while contributing to urban revitalization efforts?
