OUR VISION
We envision a diverse community where people have the resources they need to be healthy and well
OUR MISSION
To combat the causes and effects of poverty by providing the community with programming, resources and advocacy to help people achieve well being
Our areas of focus include providing food security through a food bank and breakfast program, one-to-one support using a trauma-informed practice under a Social Worker. We also provide laundry services for unhoused folks, a free tax clinic for those with low annual incomes, and advocate for those experiencing poverty and homelessness in the Halifax Regional Municipality.
Our Values
We are committed to:
- Welcoming - Being open and welcoming, providing a safe space for anyone seeking support
- Caring Attitude - Reaching out to those in need, offering support through our programming
- Dignity & Respect - Treating everyone with dignity and respect, the way we would all wish to be treated
- Affirming & Inclusive - Diversity and inclusion in all our programs, helping to improve the quality of life for people in need no matter what
- Collaborative & Community Focused - Relationships and partnerships with people and organizations to enable a strong synergy
- Trauma Informed & Harm Reductive – using a trauma informed lens in our work with clients
Our History
In the 1860's the 'Edward Jost Mission' was established in the North End of Halifax; it subsequently became 'The City Mission'. After moving through several sites ebbs and flows of activity, the work of the Mission was taken up by the congregation of Brunswick Street United Church in 1929. The City Mission offered support including childcare, food, clothing, and employment help.
Over time, the work of the Mission grew to be too much for one congregation to carry out and in 2005, the Halifax Presbytery of The United Church of Canada approved the trial formation of a separate entity: Brunswick Street Mission. The trial was deemed a success and permanent arrangements were made in 2009.
Our mission remains as it did over 150 years ago: working to meet the needs of those experiencing poverty in Halifax.
