The shelter will be located at St. Paul's Evangelical Lutheran Church on Phoenix Street. Photo: Evan Taylor.
In response to the pressing need to assist the unhoused population during the harsh winter months, the Department of Community Services has announced the establishment of a new shelter in Bridgewater, set to serve individuals in Bridgewater and Lunenburg County.
Operated by the South Shore Open Doors Association (SSODA), the shelter is expected to provide a vital lifeline for those in need.
The shelter will be at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, thanks to a partnership with the Department of Community Services for the 2023 winter season.
As of July 2023, SSODA’s intake activities revealed that at least 134 households or individuals were experiencing homelessness or housing insecurity across Lunenburg County. Notably, almost a quarter of those individuals identified as seniors. This underscores the crucial role that the shelter is set to play in addressing homelessness in the region.
Operating from 8 p.m. to 8 a.m. overnight, the shelter will cater to individuals and couples aged 19 and older. Specialized support will be made available for unhoused families. To ensure a safe and clean environment, SSODA is working closely with the Nova Scotia Department of Community Services and St. Paul’s Lutheran Church to develop specific policies related to site security, pest control, and harm reduction. The operation of the shelter will be overseen by professional staff, with funding for staff training provided by the Province of Nova Scotia.
The shelter will offer 15 beds available on a “first come, first served” basis each night, offering refuge to those in need.
In a bid to maintain a safe and secure environment, the shelter will strictly prohibit controlled substances, except for prescribed medications. Individuals found in violation of this rule will not be permitted to stay overnight at the site.
While the shelter’s scheduled opening date is November 15, 2023, it’s important to note that this date is subject to change as preparations progress.
To address any issues or concerns on-site, SSODA’s trained staff team will be readily available to respond. If matters need to be escalated, the Bridgewater Police Service (BPS) will be contacted for assistance. BPS has been actively participating in the planning process, providing valuable input and advice.
The establishment of this shelter signifies a significant step in addressing the urgent issue of homelessness in Lunenburg County, particularly as the winter season approaches. It is hoped that this initiative will provide vital assistance to those in need, offering a safe and warm haven for individuals and families experiencing homelessness in the region.
The Bridgewater shelter is also expected to serve as a noteworthy case study, showcasing how community-based organizations can be activated, engaged, and funded to oversee programs that genuinely assist the unhoused population in rural areas of Nova Scotia. To learn more about SSODA and its mission, you can visit their website at
