In September 2013, Fresh Start learned of five apartment buildings in West, North and East Saint John, whose landlord had given them one- to-two days notice that their power was being disconnected due to his non-payment of utility bills.

There were 12 tenants affected, including 19 adults and 15 children from ages 70 down to toddlers. After consultation with the Department of Social Development for emergency assistance, we were able to obtain food allowances, emergency hotel stays, rents, damage deposits and moving assistance.

Housing units were offered to some families; other families and individuals were relocated to apartment units. Thankfully Fresh Start was there to help those 34 displaced persons who felt there was no-one to turn to for help.