CFEP Grant-Funded Renovation Project Improves FCJ Centre Facilities

Thanks to the support of the Government of Alberta's Community Facility Enhancement Program (CFEP), FCJ Christian Life Centre has successfully completed a major renovation project that has improved the safety, functionality, accessibility, and sustainability of our facilities.

The project focused on replacing aging washroom fixtures and upgrading flooring throughout main areas of the Centre. In total, 41 toilets were replaced in the guest accommodations, main floor, and basement washrooms. Flooring was also upgraded in all renovated washrooms, as well as in the dining room, kitchen hallway, and west hallway.

Creating a Better Experience for Our Guests

The Centre's toilets had been in use for more than 46 years and were becoming increasingly difficult and costly to maintain. The new toilets are comfort-height models (17 inches high) and water-efficient, providing a cleaner, more reliable, and more comfortable experience for both guests and staff.

In addition to the washroom upgrades, damaged and worn flooring was replaced with durable Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) flooring. This water-resistant and non-slip flooring improves safety, enhances the appearance of the Centre, and is better suited to the heavy use experienced in community facilities.

Supporting Environmental Sustainability

The project also contributes to FCJ Centre's commitment to environmental stewardship. The previous toilets used approximately 12 litres of water per flush, while the new units use only 4.8 litres per flush, resulting in a significant reduction in water consumption and supporting long-term sustainability.

Improving Accessibility and Functionality

As the project progressed, we identified opportunities to improve accessibility and better meet the needs of our guests and community members. One stall in the downstairs ladies' washroom was converted into a barrier-free accessible toilet, making the facility more inclusive and welcoming to all visitors.

In addition, an existing shower stall was converted into a urinal stall, improving functionality and making better use of the available space. These enhancements help ensure that our facilities continue to meet the needs of the diverse groups who use the Centre.

Project Outcomes

The completed renovations have:

• Replaced 41 aging toilets with modern, water-efficient units.

• Upgraded flooring in guest area washrooms, main floor and basement washrooms, the dining room, kitchen hallway, and west hallway.

• Added a barrier-free accessible toilet in the downstairs ladies' washroom.

• Converted an unused shower stall into a urinal stall to improve functionality.

• Enhanced safety with durable, water-resistant, and non-slip flooring.

• Reduced water consumption and future maintenance costs.

• Created a more welcoming, accessible, and comfortable environment for guests, retreatants, and community groups.

  
  

On May 7, 2026, following the successful completion of the renovation project, FCJ Christian Life Centre submitted its final report to the Government of Alberta's Community Facility Enhancement Program (CFEP).

Looking Ahead

This project represents an important investment in the future of FCJ Christian Life Centre. With the support of the CFEP Grant, we have been able to modernize essential infrastructure while continuing to provide affordable, welcoming, and sustainable space for the many individuals and organizations who use our facilities each year.

We are grateful to the Government of Alberta and the Community Facility Enhancement Program (CFEP) for making these important improvements possible. We are also deeply thankful for the generosity of our friends, supporters, and donors who contributed through our 2024 Annual Tea Party and through donations received afterward. These renovations would not have been possible without your support, encouragement, and belief in our mission.

Thank you to everyone who contributed to the success of this project. Your generosity is helping us create a more welcoming, accessible, and sustainable Centre for our community for years to come. #