The new shelter in St. Stephen has officially opened, according to its operator Neighbourhood Works Inc.

It’s named the Lighthouse Lodge and can hold up to 20 regular beds, with 10 overflow beds. The full capacity is 30 people. It opened on Dec. 17, with drop-in capability on Dec. 10.

Jim Stuart, the executive director, said each year has been challenging to get set up, but the new permanency of this shelter at 9 Main Street will be a big step.

“All our local contractors such as carpentry, electrical, plumbing, and the like have been fantastic,” he said in an email to The Courier. “Could not do this without them. Getting things up to code and inspected is the most time-consuming.”

St. Stephen has been grappling with an increasing number of people experiencing homelessness. In December 2023, the municipality declared a state of emergency to try and force movement on securing a permanent shelter in the area.

The previous PC government did try to put one on Happy Valley Road but was unable to after significant pushback from the community. However, it did put funding toward NWI to fund a temporary out-of-the-cold shelter.

Stuart said he tries not to listen to the negative noise around the shelter, with people often expressing concerns about the shelter, its possible residents, and the location.

“NWI has put out our FAQs, we dropped them off at all our neighbours on Main, St. Croix, and George streets,” he said in the email. “It is difficult to correct false information like “bussing people in” as it perpetuates faster than the truth, people want to believe it. It is easier to accept than to accept that in a small community, we have this level of disparity. NWI will continue to advocate for these and other vulnerable people and do good work. Success is the key to change.”

Neighbourhood Works Inc. has done a lot of work to help those experiencing homelessness, but also addiction and mental health issues.

Stuart said there is always room for people to help.

“During this time of year, we are always in need of gloves, hats, men’s and ladies’ underwear, long johns, or lounge pants,” he said. “We will be reaching out to see if there may be some individuals that would like to come in and cook some meals.”

Everyone who wants to work or volunteer would need to be subject to a background check.

Stuart said when he hears stories about how Neighbourhood Works has helped them, he thinks of how his family and people have helped him.

“​​NWI is trying to pay it forward in our own little way,” he said.