Saint John will soon open 14 new housing units for youth at risk of homelessness. The three storey building on Victoria Street in the north end focuses on supporting vulnerable young people ages 16 to 21. The New Brunswick Housing Corporation expects construction to finish in the coming weeks.

A Collaborative Community Effort

Local, provincial and federal governments funded the project. The federal government contributed 3.4 million dollars. The provincial housing corporation provided 1.1 million dollars. The city added 145,000 dollars. Unified Saint John Housing Co Operative Ltd leads the project.

According to a recent report from CBC News, all 14 units are affordable and four are fully accessible. Tenants receive rent subsidies and pay no more than 30 percent of their monthly income toward rent.

More Than Just a Roof

The project uses a trauma informed approach to select tenants and provide care. Health Minister John Dornan notes that simply providing shelter falls short for people facing mental health or employment challenges. The new building includes on site resources to help residents recover and transition to long term housing.

“Our goal is to get people off the street, prevent people from going on the street, and bring interventions that allow them to graduate out of this program,” Dornan said.

Emmanuelle Proud Thomson serves as president of the housing group. “A home is more than just four walls and a roof,” Proud Thomson said. “It is having a place where you feel safe.” She adds that housing provides a foundation for youth to focus on school, employment and health.

Saint John Member of Parliament Wayne Long emphasizes the human impact of the project. He says 14 young people will finally have a door they can lock, a bed of their own and the stability to think about tomorrow.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who qualifies to live in the new housing units?

The units support vulnerable youth ages 16 to 21 who are at risk of homelessness. Support services continue even after a resident turns 21 to ensure a successful transition to independent living.

How much will rent cost for the tenants?

Tenants receive rent subsidies. They will pay a maximum of 30 percent of their monthly income toward rent.

Where is the new building located?

The building sits on Victoria Street in the north end of Saint John, directly across from Victoria Square.