The Sophia Recovery Centre officially opened its new location in Saint John’s north end on Tuesday.

Construction started for the new 3,600-square-foot space on Metcalf Street in January after the age and condition of the centre’s original space on Hazen Street created ongoing issues. It was forced to close temporarily in March after frozen pipes burst and caused flooding.

Lieutenant Governor of New Brunswick Brenda Murphy says the new location will greatly benefit women struggling with addiction.

“They’re not at all defined but their substance abuse and each of them are following their own path of recovery,” said Murphy.

President Lynn Nagle says the funding and construction are a testament to Saint Johnners looking to make a change, she can’t thank everyone all at once, however all of the sponsors can be found on the donor wall as you enter the building.

Sherry Wilson, the minister responsible for addictions and mental health services, said the recovery centre is near and dear to her heart.

“It is vital that we offer support to those people working hard to turn their lives around and to lend a helping hand to those who are trying to break free from addiction,” said Wilson.

The Department of Health will also provide the centre with operational funding of $595,200 this year, an increase of about $100,000.

The Sophia Recovery Centre opened its first location in uptown Saint John in 2008 and has since added locations in St. Stephen and Quispamsis to meet growing demand.

Nearly 500 women visited the centre in 2023, with more than 5,000 appointments for counselling, peer check-ins, and group programs.

Rachel Grant has been working with Sophia Recovery since the Hazen Street location and operates a singer-songwriter class. She performed a song that was written by herself and the class about the transition and new location, called ‘The Spirit of Sophia.’

More details about the centre can be found by clicking here.