Building Updates
July 18, 2025 - RexPlex update: Supporting wildfire evacuees
The University continues to work closely with the Province and community partners to support those impacted by wildfires.
Which spaces are being used?
The main floor of Axworthy Health and RecPlex is being used as an emergency shelter. (Due to the electrical fire that occurred in June, the second-floor facilities remain closed for repairs.)
Because the RecPlex parkade is being used as part of the support efforts, it is only open to monthly parkers, accessible to them through the southeast stairwell (main entrance).
The Fitness Centre remains open, but the University is closing the changerooms from 8:00 to 11:00 a.m. and 1:00 to 3:30 p.m. daily so that evacuees can use the shower facilities.
How long will we be taking part in this support effort?
Although the situation remains fluid, it is likely that the Axworthy Health and RecPlex will continue to be used as an emergency shelter for at least several more weeks. Updates will continue to be posted on our this page as they become available.
How can we help?
Although the Province is leading the operations of the shelter (such as coordination, food, and safety and security), there are still meaningful ways we can come together as a university to help those impacted by the wildfires.
In addition to serving as a host location, we are working to provide activities and resources for the evacuees. A variety of initiatives are in-progress, beginning, or being planned—such as activities for kids through the ToyBox program, movie screenings, free sporting equipment, and access to University basketball camps. We are also working with partners to set up free access for evacuees to recreational facilities in the neighbourhood including the YMCA and City Recreational Centres. We are in continual conversation with other organizations, the Province, and the City to come up with new initiatives that could be helpful.
As individuals, a great way to help right now is to donate items that have been requested by the shelter organizers:
- Wagons
- Strollers
- Toys and games (such as decks of cards or UNO)
- Sidewalk chalk
- Jump ropes
- Bubbles
To avoid donating unneeded items, we’ve been asked to keep to this list. Donations can be dropped off at the security office on the ground floor of Centennial.
The University is proud to take part in this emergency response effort and grateful to everyone who has stepped up to help. Thank you for your continued support as we respond to this evolving situation.