Halifax has given approval for a longstanding community health center to construct a new facility to consolidate various services in one location. The NECHC, previously known as the North End Community Health Center, is planning to erect a six-story building to accommodate multiple programs, including a medical clinic, street outreach, dental care, and housing support. The non-profit organization, led by Marie-France LeBlanc, has seen a significant increase in staff from 23 to over 200 in recent years, necessitating the move due to outgrowing their current space on Gottingen Street. The aim is to centralize operations that are currently spread across the north end, with staff working in separate nearby storefronts.
LeBlanc emphasized that while the NECHC maintains its focus on the north end, it now extends its support to individuals throughout the city, including the Overlook supportive housing site in Dartmouth. The integration of various services within the NECHC’s new building posed challenges in complying with the land-use bylaw for the site. The new building will be situated behind the NECHC’s Ozanam Place supportive housing project on Brunswick Street, developed in conjunction with the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul.
To address the zoning challenges, the health center approached the Halifax Regional Municipality to modify the land-use designation to allow for a more flexible approach and eliminate the parking requirement. The municipality was receptive to this request, approving a new designation that caters to non-profits providing health care, social services, housing, and related office support. This decision was welcomed by LeBlanc and local councilor Virginia Hinch, who lauded the project’s location and alignment with community support services.
Councilor Becky Kent expressed hope that the new community services designation, applicable to mixed-use zones in urban areas, would assist other organizations facing similar obstacles. LeBlanc highlighted the ongoing need for the NECHC’s services, citing the growing number of individuals or families experiencing homelessness in Halifax.
Looking ahead, the NECHC will focus on securing funding, estimated at around $30 million, from government and private sources to support the project. Collaborating with FBM Architecture, detailed plans for the new facility will be developed, with construction potentially commencing within the next three years.