If you care about community development in Saint John, you will want to know about a new supportive housing complex officially open in the north end. Mitchener Village provides nine fully furnished units for young people facing homelessness between the ages of 19 and 25.

According to a report by CBC News, the Centre for Youth Care led the project to address a clear need in local housing.

More Than Just a Roof

The complex sits on Thornbrough Street. Each unit includes a bed, television, small couch, basic kitchen, and laundry machines. Tenants pay a maximum of 30 percent of their monthly income on rent.

Karen Cummings, executive director of the Centre for Youth Care, emphasizes that housing alone does not solve youth homelessness. The facility offers continuous support, including access to mental health services and tenancy skill building.

“Youth can stay here as long as they feel that they need the support,” Cummings told reporters. “This is their plan, their lives. They’re the drivers of their own future.”

Bridging the Care Gap

The project launched in response to a specific community challenge. Many young people age out of community services meant for those under 19. A 2024 report by the Human Development Council revealed that 32 percent of the local homeless population had lived in the foster care system.

Funding for the project came from multiple sources. The federal and provincial governments contributed over one million dollars. The Centre for Youth Care provided $179,360, and private donations covered the remaining 1.3 million dollars. The Belonging Restored Endowment Fund maintains the building and helps youth afford food, emergency rent assistance, and work attire.

Real Community Impact

Amber Martin, a peer mentor with the Centre for Youth Care, knows the value of this support first hand. She experienced housing insecurity and mental health struggles as a young person.

“I really wish we had something like this when I was growing up because it’s just beautiful,” Martin said at the opening event. “Look what we’re doing for our community, guys. We are doing this for our future. We are looking out for our children.”

The Centre for Youth Care currently works with the New Brunswick Housing Corporation to select tenants directly from the city registry.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is eligible to live at Mitchener Village?

The complex serves at risk young people aged 19 to 25 who are currently on the city registry.

How much does rent cost?

Tenants pay no more than 30 percent of their monthly income toward rent.

What support services are available to tenants?

Residents have access to continuous support, including mental health services and programs to build tenancy skills.

Where is the complex located?

Mitchener Village is located on Thornbrough Street in the north end of Saint John.