Maggie’s Place owns home after generous donations

TRURO - After years of uncertainty, Maggie's Place Family Resource Centre can say that it has a permanent home.

Located at 1027 Prince Street, Maggie's Place offers free programs to parents, caregivers and children. Its programming includes playgroups, prenatal and parenting classes, food programs, and a home visiting program.

"Ten years ago, we ran an 'It Takes a Village to Move a Maggie's Place' campaign, and received tremendous support from the community to turn this building into a warm and inviting resource centre for families," said executive director Linda Legere in a press release, speaking of their move in 2013.

Since December 2021, the building they operate out of has been owned by Vida Living, who purchased it in a 500-unit transaction. Since 2022, the housing company has been attempting to sell the unit that Maggie's Place operates out of.

Fearing that a new owner might seek higher rent for the space, Maggie's Places' board began to look at purchasing the unit for themselves, said Legere.

With donations from both Vida Living and Kathy Harpell of Royal Lepage Atlantic (who advised Vida Living on the sale) totalling $150,000, Maggie's Place was able to purchase the unit. Maggie's Place was advised by Burchell Macdougall lawyers, pro bono.

Now, with 1027 Prince Street in their ownership, they'll be holding a series of pre-natal workshops on Saturdays throughout the month (May 6, 13, 20). These sessions will teach parents about infant feeding decisions, car seat and infant safety, birth and comforts in labour, and baby and family care. Those interested are asked to register by calling 902-895-0200 or by email at colchester@maggiesplace.ca.