FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
The John Howard Society of Fredericton Advances Plans Recovery-Based Housing
Fredericton, NB – The John Howard Society of Fredericton Inc. is advancing plans for new recovery-based housing designed to support some of the community’s most vulnerable individuals and respond to Fredericton’s growing drug crisis.
A trusted community organization, the John Howard Society of Fredericton has a long-standing history of addressing chronic homelessness, substance use, and complex health challenges through evidence-based programming and strong community partnerships. This proposed facility represents a significant step forward in strengthening local recovery supports and improving community safety.
The project is a key recommendation of the Mayor’s Community Safety Task Force and is being developed in collaboration with Horizon Health Network, the Department of Health, the Department of Social Development, and Housing New Brunswick.
The proposed facility would include:
- 12 short-term beds, and
- 15 apartment-style units where individuals could reside for up to two years while continuing their recovery journey.
As part of responsible planning, the John Howard Society is seeking a location away from schools and traditional residential neighbourhoods. A property in the Vanier Industrial Park on Blizzard Drive is currently under consideration, pending City Council approval, a public rezoning process, and community engagement. The proposed site is located in a primarily commercial and industrial area and is well removed from residential communities.
The John Howard Society of Fredericton is committed to transparency, collaboration, and meaningful community dialogue. A public community meeting will be organized in the coming weeks to share details about the project, answer questions, and invite feedback.
“We believe that evidence-based treatment and stable housing are essential to reducing crime, improving health outcomes, and easing the pressure on emergency and crisis services,” noted John Barrow, executive director of the John Howard Society of Fredericton. “We look forward to working together with the community to move this important project forward.”
The organization looks forward to presenting the proposal to the Planning Advisory Committee and Fredericton City Council in the weeks and months ahead.
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Media Contact:
John Howard Society of Fredericton Inc.
John Barrow
Executive Director
(506) 450-2750
johnbarrow@johnhowardfredericton.ca