Photo: Caden Fanshaw / CKPG News

By Caden Fanshaw

COMING TOGETHER

New youth activity centre already making an impact downtown PG

Dec 27, 2020 | 2:19 PM

PRINCE GEORGE – The Sk’ai Zeh Yah Youth Centre is barely a month old, and it’s already made an immediate impact according to staff.

The centre operated by Carrier Sekani Family Services is geared for those less fortunate, and those who don’t have a home between the ages of 15-29.

“There’s nowhere else like this in Prince George,” says James, one of many youth who have used the facility. “I am just so grateful for all the staff who have given me so much over such a short time.”

Flint Keil, High-Risk Youth Services Manager says the site is the first of its kind in Prince George after getting inspiration from other similar centres in Vancouver.

BCHL Playoffs

Langley's goalie steals game one over Spruce Kings

1h ago

ckpg news special

The Resource Reality

20h ago

Crime

Paramedics injured after object thrown through ambulance window

Apr 03, 2026

“We can do everything here,” says Keil. “We provide meals, we provide a warm place to relax and get clean, and we hope to provide opportunities like mentorship or work to those who need us on a regular basis.”

And there aren’t many days off.

On Christmas Day the centre was open for three hours, as well as Boxing Day where over 25 people came and used the services available.

Staff know those who use the services on a first-name basis making a personal connection, something many don’t get elsewhere.

But the impact doesn’t stop there.

On weekdays, staff from Sk’ai Zeh Yah deliver breakfast to many at-risk youth and adults downtown Prince George.

“Even though we’re at the beginning, we’ve already done so much, and I can’t wait to keep this movement growing,” says Keil.

The shelter also needs your donations for winter clothing, many come into the shelter with nothing and need jackets, gloves, toques, and boots to survive the winter.

To make a donation, you can visit the centre across the street from the Prince George Native Friendship Centre.

The centre is currently open Monday to Friday 8:30-4:30, with hopes of eventually becoming a 24/7 service.