More than $3.3 million is going toward new supportive housing for youth in Saint John.
The development, called Jerome’s Place, will include 14 one‑bedroom units for youth aged 16 to 21 who are experiencing or at risk of homelessness.
The New Brunswick Housing Corporation is contributing a $1.1‑million forgivable loan, and the City of Saint John is also supporting the project.
Unified Saint John Housing Co‑operative is leading the development, with Housing Alternatives managing construction.
Saint John–Kennebecasis MP Wayne Long said the project will give young people the stability they need to plan for their future.
“They deserve that opportunity to dream and think about tomorrow and their lives in the future instead of trying to simply survive each and every day,” Long said.
Health Minister John Dornan said the project will help youth before they fall into chronic homelessness.
“This type of facility doesn’t just help 14 people. It helps 14 over many generations,” Dornan said.
Mayor Donna Reardon said the project will strengthen the north end and give youth a chance to move forward.
“Youth are our future, and we must invest in our future now,” Reardon said.
NBCC student Isabella Levesque said she grew up with undiagnosed mental‑health challenges that were made worse by her home environment, and the Teen Resource Centre (TRC) helped her find safety and support.
She added that safe housing and consistent guidance can change a young person’s life.
“I truly believe no one should be stuck in a position where they can’t do their best. The TRC is so much more than housing. It’s a team of professionals who help you with the need,” Levesque said.
The building is named in honour of Jerome, a young man involved in Teen Resource Centre programming who struggled with mental‑health challenges.
Ashley Thompson, a program lead with the Teen Resource Centre, said Jerome’s Place will be a space of safety, connection and support for youth who need long‑term stability.
The project, with 14 one‑bedroom units, is expected to be completed in the coming months.
