Photo: Canadian Red Cross
Sask Seniors Connect Hub is a welcoming learning and connection series for older adults (55+) living in rural and remote Saskatchewan.
The series offers friendly, practical sessions that explore everyday topics related to connection, well-being, and community. Sessions are free, easy to join, respectful of different life experiences, and supportive of seniors at every stage of life.
This first series will be offered virtually and in-person beginning in March 2026. For the virtual sessions, you can take part from home using your computer, tablet, or phone.
You are welcome to join whether you prefer listening quietly, sharing your thoughts, or simply learning something new.
Why Staying Connected Matters
Staying connected and socially active plays an important role in our health and well-being as we age.
Did you know that science shows strong social connections can:
- Support brain health and lower the risk of cognitive decline and dementia
- Reduce the risk of depression and anxiety
- Improve heart health and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and stroke
- Strengthen our ability to cope with stress and change
- Support a longer, healthier life
Connection = Healthy Ageing
Staying socially connected is linked to better brain health, emotional well-being, heart health, and a longer, healthier life in general.
Connection does not have to mean being busy or constantly social. Simple, regular opportunities to learn, listen, share experiences, or feel part of something larger can make a meaningful difference. And this seasonal learning series will integrate opportunities to do just that – connect with others, learn something new, share experiences, and strengthen your social health.
You Are Not Alone
In Saskatchewan, about 5 out of 10 people say they feel lonely or isolated at times. This can be especially true during the winter — and there are supports available.
About the Sask Seniors Connect Hub
Sask Seniors Connect Hub is offered through trusted community partners, including Saskatchewan Polytechnic, the University of Saskatchewan, the Canadian Red Cross, and Saskatchewan Libraries, working together to provide practical, relevant learning opportunities that support well-being, connection, and everyday life.
The free online space and seasonal series brings together a range of topics that contribute to vibrant, connected, and healthy ageing in Saskatchewan.
The series runs annually from 2025/26 through 2028/29, with sessions offered primarily during the autumn and winter months. Each year may look a little different as the program grows and learns. We are looking forward to your feedback as you participate in the initial pilot which will help the next series be even more engaging and relevant for you.
What to Expect
Sessions are:
- Friendly and welcoming
- Easy to join
- Designed for learning, listening, and gentle discussion
- Led by experienced facilitators
You can take part in the way that feels right for you. Some people enjoy listening quietly, while others like to share their thoughts. There is no pressure to speak or participate in any particular way.
How the Series is Offered
The March 2026 series is the initial launch and will be offered virtually and in-person.
You can join sessions from home using:
- A computer
- A tablet
- Or a phone
We will evolve the topics and offerings based on interest and learnings from this pilot.
A Learning Approach
Because this is a pilot, we expect to learn as we go. Feedback from participants will help shape future sessions and improve how the series is offered over time.
Sask Seniors Connect Hub is built around curiosity, shared learning, and connection — not tests, homework, or expectations.
Upcoming Sessions
Below is a preview of sessions planned for the 2026 Sask Seniors Connect Hub pilot series.
Session details are being finalized and will be updated as they are confirmed.
All sessions are free. You are welcome to attend any session that interests you — there is no obligation to attend every session.
Online Safety at Moose Jaw Public Library
In-person session
Navigating the internet can sometimes feel like walking through a minefield! If you've ever been nervous about using online services, you're not alone. Join us for this 6-week series to learn what to watch out for, and how to keep yourself safe online. Nanan STEM Academy staff will give you the confidence you need to take advantage of everything the internet has to offer!
Session Details
Reading Room
Safe browsing habits, secure websites, and strong passwords
Tuesday May 19, 2026
Herb Taylor Room
Recognizing and avoiding scams, phishing attempts, and fake links
Tuesday June 2, 2026
Herb Taylor Room
Protecting personal privacy and managing social media settings
Tuesday June 9, 2026
Herb Taylor Room
Shopping and banking online safely
Tuesday June 16, 2026
Herb Taylor Room
Keeping devices secure with updates and antivirus protection
Tuesday June 23, 2026
Herb Taylor Room
Identifying misinformation and building lifelong digital safety habits
Interested? Let us know!
Select Online Safety on the sign up form
Coffee & Community
In-person session
Join us at the Moose Jaw Public Library for Coffee & Community, a socializing event for older adults (55+). This relaxed, in-person gathering is focused on connection and conversation. Meet others, enjoy a coffee or tea, and connect on a variety of everyday topics together.
Session Details
Reading Room
Wednesday June 3, 2026
Reading Room
Wednesday June 17, 2026
Reading Room
Wednesday July 1, 2026
NO MEETING - Library closed
Wednesday July 15, 2026
Archives
Wednesday July 29, 2026
Reading Room
Wednesday August 12, 2026
Reading Room
Wednesday August 26, 2026
Reading Room
Interested? Let us know!
Select Coffee & Community on the sign up form
Computer Basics - Mortlach Public Library
Session closed
Session Details
118 Rose St, Mortlach, SK
Tuesday April 21st, 2026
Finding Information Safely Online
Tuesday April 28, 2026
Creating and Sharing Documents
Tuesday May 5, 2026
Interested? Let us know!
Select Computer Basics - Mortlach Public Library on the sign up form
Computer Basics with Nanan STEM Academy
Session closed
Whether you are a complete beginner, or just want to learn how to use your computer to the fullest, this class will help you build the confidence you need! Meeting once a week for 6 weeks, you will learn to use the email, video calls, and other online tools to stay connected, while building connections with other learners in the community.
Session Details
Herb Taylor Room
Tuesday March 31, 2026
Herb Taylor Room
Tuesday April 7, 2026
Herb Taylor Room
Tuesday April 21, 2026
Herb Taylor Room
Tuesday April 28, 2026
Reading Room
Tuesday May 5, 2026
Herb Taylor Room
Interested? Let us know!
Select Computer Basics on the sign up form
Self-Care CPR: Simple Ways to Reset Stress and Care for What Matters
Session closed
A practical, interactive session focused on caring for yourself and those you support. Together, we’ll explore simple, science-based ways to calm the nervous system in three minutes or less, reduce stress, and create a personal self-care plan.
This session is designed to be useful, encouraging, and easy to apply in everyday life.
Session Details
Staying Connected: Strengthening Social Health at Any Age
Session closed
Social connection is an important part of our health — just like physical and mental well-being.
In this session, we’ll explore:
- Why social connection matters as we age
- Simple ways to strengthen your “social muscle”
- Everyday ideas for creating a more connected and engaged life
The session will include practical tips, reflection, and gentle conversation.
Session Details
How to Register for a Session
Registering for a session is simple and free.
The information we collect from the submission form below helps us understand who we are reaching, and how we can improve future sessions.
Step 1
Sign up
Complete the form below. This will help us plan sessions and learn from this pilot. The form should take only a few minutes to complete. Your information will be kept confidential.
Step 2
Registration Link
Once the form is submitted, you will be contacted by our team via email who will provide you with a Registration link for our sessions.
Step 3
Register for session(s)
You are welcome to register for one session or several — there is no obligation to attend every session.
Please register at least two business days before your session to save a spot, whether attending online or joining an in-person session.
How to Join a Session
Sessions in the March 2026 series will be held either in-person at a public library space or online. Online sessions use ClickMeeting – a secure, easy-to-use platform for online sessions.
Joining an online session is simple:
- You will receive an email with a session link after you register
- At the time of the session, you click the link
- You can join using a computer, tablet, or phone
- You do not need to download special software in advance
You do not need to be “good with computers” to take part. If you can click a link, you can join a session. Support will be available during the session if you need help getting started.
You are welcome to join just to listen, type questions, or speak if you wish. You can choose whether to turn on your camera or microphone.
If you have joined an online meeting before, ClickMeeting will feel familiar. If you haven’t, that’s okay — we’ll be there to guide you.
If you need help registering, support is available. Please see the contact information at the bottom of this page.
Community Partners & Resources
Sask Seniors Connect Hub is made possible through partnerships with trusted community organizations that support seniors across Saskatchewan — during everyday life and in times of greater need.
Below are some of the partners supporting this series and additional resources.
Saskatchewan Polytechnic’s Centre for Health Research
(Series Partner Supporting Research & Evaluation of Sask Seniors Connect Hub)
Saskatchewan Polytechnic’s Centre for Health Research, Innovation and Scholarship (CHRIS) The centre is a dynamic hub for advancing health-related research, fostering innovation and promoting scholarly excellence across the province and beyond. CHRIS unites faculty, students, patients and partners from multiple health disciplines to codesign projects that address real needs in Saskatchewan’s health system, especially in rural, remote and Indigenous communities. Combining a unique mix of patient-oriented applied research, strong community partnerships, interdisciplinary collaboration and responsiveness to partners, CHRIS translates ideas into solutions. Learn more at saskpolytech.ca/chris.
Sarah Kostiuk, MN, EdD
Sarah serves as a research chair with a focus on community health for the Centre for Health Research, Innovation and Scholarship (CHRIS). Her work centers on community applied research to address community health challenges including those that involve vulnerable populations such as seniors, newcomers and residents of rural communities. The research aims to improve access to care and enhancing health outcomes through evidence-based practices and community engagement strategies. With a strong academic background and a dedication to advancing the health of communities, Sarah is recognized as a leader in healthcare education and applied research.
Kandis Harris, RN, BScN, MN, DN
Kandis Harris is the Director of the Centre for Health Research, Innovation and Scholarship within the Faculty of Nursing, Health Sciences and Community Services at Saskatchewan Polytechnic. With extensive experience in nursing practice, education, and leadership, she is committed to advancing applied research, fostering innovation, and strengthening community partnerships. Kandis supports research initiatives while promoting collaborative, practice-informed scholarship that enhances health outcomes and community impact.
Michelle Pavloff, RN, BSN, MN, PhD
Dr. Michelle Pavloff is an Associate Professor in the College of Nursing at the University of Saskatchewan and a registered nurse with extensive experience in rural health and agricultural mental health. Her research focuses on mental health, wellbeing, and access to care in rural communities, including supporting research and initiatives that address the needs of older adults aging in rural settings. Her work emphasizes community-engaged, applied research to strengthen mental health supports, reduce isolation, and improve health outcomes for underserved rural populations.
Canadian Red Cross
(Series Partner Supporting the Online Sask Seniors Connect Hub and sessions)
The Canadian Red Cross supports individuals and communities across Saskatchewan during climate-related and community emergencies, such as floods, wildfires, and extreme weather events.
Beyond emergencies, the Red Cross also offers Community Health & Wellbeing programs, like Friendly Calls, that support people in everyday life — helping individuals stay connected, informed, and supported as they age. Through partnerships like Sask Seniors Connect Hub, the Canadian Red Cross works alongside communities to strengthen well-being, connection, and resilience.
Friendly Calls
Friendly Calls is a free program offered by the Canadian Red Cross that offers regular phone check-ins for older adults and others who may benefit from connection and conversation.
Friendly Calls is:
- Available anywhere in Saskatchewan
- Easy to access
- Flexible and confidential
- Focused on connection and includes regular emotional support, coping strategies, and resources as needed.
For some people, a friendly phone call can make a meaningful difference in staying connected and supported. Call 1-833-979-9779 weekdays 9am-5pm or email FriendlyCalls@redcross.ca
Saskatchewan Public Libraries
(Series Partner providing Programs and Locations)
Public libraries across Saskatchewan — including Palliser Regional Library and Moose Jaw Public Library — offer welcoming spaces, programs, and resources that support learning, connection, and community life.
Library programming may include:
- Learning opportunities
- Community gatherings
- Technology support
- Access to local information and resources
Palliser Regional Library
Palliser Regional Library has 20 library branches throughout south-central Saskatchewan. Our mission is to support lifelong learning, literacy, and community development through accessible library services. We are passionate about making sure that no one in our communities feels left behind or forgotten. Your public library is a safe and approachable place for you to find connection and information.
Moose Jaw Public Library
Moose Jaw Public Library’s vision is to be a vibrant community center of discovery and learning for life. Our mission is to connect people, ideas and multiple ways of knowing by providing a safe, inclusive and welcoming space for people of all ages. We provide opportunities for connection, creativity, and belonging across generations. You belong here!
Resources
Partner Toolkit
Promotional Poster
Community partners are welcome to download and display a poster to help share information about upcoming sessions.
Additional Helpful Resources
If you or someone you care about needs additional support, the following resources may also be helpful:
Mental Health Support
- 988.ca
If you are experiencing emotional distress or need immediate mental health support, you can call or text 988 to reach the National Mental Health line. Support is available 24/7, in English and French. - Sask Ag Matters Mental Health Network
Sask Ag Matters provides agriculture producers, their family members, and agricultural workers across Saskatchewan with affordable and accessible mental health resources.
Call 1-306-539-4213 or email SaskAgMatters@gmail.com.
Community Resources
- Age-Friendly Saskatchewan
Age-Friendly Saskatchewan identifies community resources and programs across Saskatchewan that support dignified and vibrant ageing in place. You can click on the map or on the specific community names to learn more. - 211.ca
Libraries, community centres, and local organizations often offer programs and supports for seniors. - Your local library
Municipal LibrariesRegional Libraries
Need Help or Have Questions?
If you have questions about Sask Seniors Connect Hub, need help registering, or would like support joining a session, we’re happy to help.
You can reach us by:
- Email: FriendlyCalls@redcross.ca
- Phone: 1-833-979-9779
If you leave a message, someone will get back to you as soon as possible.
We’re Here to Support You
You don’t need to have everything figured out before reaching out.
Whether you have a question about a session, need help with the registration form, or would like reassurance about joining online, support is available.
Please remember...
Sask Seniors Connect Hub is designed to be welcoming, flexible, and easy to take part in.
You are welcome to join in the way that feels right for you — whether that means attending one session, several, or simply learning more.
