Full Breakdown
Stella’s Circle Launches Rowan House: 15 New Transitional Units for Women and Gender-Diverse Residents in St. John’s
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event
Stella’s Circle, a charitable housing provider in Newfoundland and Labrador, opened 15 new transitional housing units in St. John’s. The development, named Rowan House, is located above the Just Us Women’s Centre, which will soon move into the same building. The units are intended for women and gender-diverse people who have experience with the criminal-justice system and will operate with a 24/7 staffing model to ensure safety and security.
Background & Context
Lead executive officer Laura Winters says the existing system is under-serving women and gender-diverse individuals experiencing homelessness. She notes that only eight comparable units currently exist in the city, far short of the demand for this demographic. Stella’s Circle already manages 148 supportive housing units across Newfoundland and Labrador, offering affordable options and on-site wrap-around services aimed at achieving housing stability.
Data & Statistics
- New units: 15 (Rowan House)
- Existing comparable units in St. John’s: 8
- Total supportive units operated by Stella’s Circle in NL: 148
- Federal funding received: $5 million (channeled through the city)
- Provincial funding received: $1.8 million
- Additional private investment: unspecified
Official Statements & Responses
Winters emphasizes that Rowan House fills a “critical gap” by providing both housing and comprehensive support services, and she stresses the need for ongoing collaboration between community groups and government to end homelessness.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We are creating a whole new resource; women and gender diverse folks have needs around housing that look different… and it is incredibly important that we meet the needs of the population that need those services,” — Laura Winters, lead executive
- “They are on site. As well as a 24/7 staffing model around the housing aspect which is so essential to the safety and security of women living here,” — Winters. With
- “They will have access to people, programs and services that can help them take the next steps,” — Bruce. Winters, lead executive
- “I think incredible efforts are being made… but the outcome is not meeting the need,” — Laura Winters, lead executive