In a significant development for maternal and child recovery support, Shelly’s Haven is poised to open its doors in Conception Bay South, Newfoundland and Labrador. This new recovery home will focus on uniting mothers with their children while providing essential support services.
Shelly’s Haven: A New Beginning for Mothers and Babies
Shelly’s Haven, an initiative led by the non-profit Roots of Resilience, will accommodate up to six mothers over the age of 29, along with their children. Scheduled for launch in the summer of 2026, the home aims to offer 24/7 support, including:
- Mental health services
- Addiction recovery programs
- Parenting assistance
- Guidance navigating social support systems
Background and Goals
Jeannie Piercey, co-founder of Roots of Resilience, emphasized the importance of a family-centered approach in this new recovery initiative. “This will be new to our province to have a sober recovery home for women and children,” she stated.
Statistics reveal a growing concern in Newfoundland and Labrador, with an estimated 50 to 60 babies born exposed to substances every year, according to Dr. Anne Drover, a pediatrician associated with Memorial University. As this issue continues to rise, support systems become vital for both mothers and infants.
Personal Stories of Recovery
Brittany Stockley, who faced her own struggles with addiction, is now an advisory board member for Roots of Resilience. Her journey toward recovery and motherhood serves as an inspiration for others. Stockley, along with fellow advocate Courtney Pearce, shares her story to help destigmatize the challenges faced by mothers dealing with addiction.
Both women have benefitted from Roots of Resilience, illustrating the positive impact of community support. Pearce reflected on the difference that advocacy made in her life, highlighting the vital role of supportive relationships. “To have a friend believe in me and say like, ‘You can do this,’” she explained, “just gave me that extra push.”
Breaking the Cycle
Both Stockley and Pearce are committed to raising awareness and providing support for other mothers facing similar challenges. They emphasize the importance of fostering an environment where mothers can stay with their children while learning to care for them independently.
The introduction of Shelly’s Haven marks a critical step towards establishing supportive resources for mothers in recovery, ultimately aiming to break the cycle of addiction and improve outcomes for families in Newfoundland and Labrador.
As the opening date approaches, the focus will remain on understanding and meeting the unique needs of mothers and their children, fostering a healthier community for future generations.
