The Sophia Recovery Centre has started a much-anticipated renovation project at its new location in Saint John’s north end.

The centre was first opened in a Hazen Street apartment in 2008 by Sisters Arleen Brawley and Mary-Beth McCurdy of the Sisters of Charity of the Immaculate Conception (SCIC).

The centre provides women in the community who are struggling with drug and alcohol addictions with counselling, and activities such as art, yoga, meditation, and book clubs. 

However, the age and condition of the centre’s original space have created ongoing issues. It was forced to close temporarily in March after frozen pipes burst and caused flooding.

In June, the centre announced that it had secured a 3,600-square-foot space at 238 Metcalf Street.

The provincial government has provided support for the project, with a community development grant from the Regional Development Corporation. Additional funding from the City of Saint John is expected to be confirmed in the coming weeks.

The centre continues to fundraise to secure the final $100,000 needed for the project. Residents can donate through the Buy-A-Brick program.

“There are different levels of buying bricks. You can buy one or a section of bricks that will be put on display as a donor wall in front of the entrance,” said executive director Julie Atkinson.

The project is scheduled for completion in April. More details about donations can be found by clicking here.