Work continues on the much-anticipated renovation project for the Sophia Recovery Centre’s new Saint John location.
Saint John council approved a $50,000 grant from the city’s community services reserves during Monday’s meeting.
“It’s been an ongoing conversation with the city about how they can partner and support us with this project so it’s great that it finally came in front of the council and was approved where excited,” said Julie Atkinson, executive director of the Sophia Recovery Centre.
The province has also contributed $485,000 toward the estimated $1.7-million renovation project on Metcalf Street.
Atkinson said fundraising is about 85 to 90 per cent complete, with another $150,000 or so needed.
The centre continues to fundraise to secure the final funds needed for the project. Residents still can donate through the Buy-A-Brick program. Cash and e-transfers are also accepted.
“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 Atkinson.
The centre will provide women in the community who are struggling with drug and alcohol addictions with counselling and activities such as art, yoga, meditation, and book clubs.
Atkinson said the planned opening of the new centre has been pushed from April to late May.
