The Oak Centre Shelter
The Oak Centre Shelter is a 24/7 emergency shelter operated by the John Howard Society of Fredericton, providing safe, low-barrier accommodation and compassionate support for adults experiencing homelessness.
The shelter serves individuals with a wide range of needs, including those experiencing mental illness, substance use, chronic health conditions, developmental disabilities, trauma, and other complex challenges. Many guests have faced barriers to accessing traditional shelters or support services due to behavioural concerns or other circumstances. At the Oak Centre, every person is treated with dignity, respect, and a commitment to helping them move forward.
Operating with a low-barrier philosophy, we prioritize safety while ensuring that access to shelter is not denied unless absolutely necessary. Staff are trained in trauma-informed care, de-escalation, mental health support, and crisis intervention, creating an environment that is welcoming, inclusive, and responsive to the diverse needs of the community.
Oak Centre staff work alongside clients to build pathways toward stability. Staff help connect guests with housing, healthcare, income supports, mental health and addiction services, employment resources, and other community programs. By addressing immediate needs while supporting long-term goals, we help individuals move toward safe, stable, and permanent housing.
We believe that everyone deserves a safe place to sleep, compassionate support, and the opportunity to rebuild their lives.