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- calendar_today October 25, 2026
Stella’s Circle and Bensaid Services Chosen for New Housing Programs
Two organizations, Stella’s Circle and Bensaid Services, have been awarded contracts to operate new supportive and transitional housing programs in St. John’s. This development comes as Horizons at 106, an existing facility, prepares for closure by December 31.
Details of the Supportive Housing Contracts
The Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation (NLHC) selected the two organizations after a competitive process. Stella’s Circle will deliver moderate case management services to 25 individuals, ensuring at least five in-home support visits each week. The contract for this program has a three-year duration, with an annual value of about $1.3 million.
Bensaid Services will operate an intensive case-management program, providing round-the-clock staff response for 20 residents. This contract is valued at approximately $2.2 million annually for three years.
Housing Program Arrangements and Support
Both housing program operators have presented plans to accommodate participants and own properties that will be used for this purpose. Stella’s Circle may also take advantage of housing benefits or allocated public-housing units to serve its clients. Meanwhile, a third contract for light case management across 30 additional units is still under review by the NLHC.
Transition from Horizons at 106
Concerns for the current 45 residents at Horizons at 106 are being addressed through these new initiatives. According to the NLHC, all current residents of Horizons will be placed either in the two newly announced programs or, temporarily, in public-housing units with staff support while long-term housing solutions are arranged. This transition aims to ensure continuity of care and housing stability for those involved.
Financial Impact and Future Outlook
The total annual cost of operating the two new housing contracts will be around $3.5 million. This represents a significant reduction from the $14.5 million spent on the operation of Horizons at 106 during 2025–26. The NLHC has stated that these changes are part of a broader effort to modernize and improve access to supportive housing and transitional housing models for those in need of housing support in St. John’s.
Ongoing Developments
While two operators have been chosen, the agency continues its review of proposals for additional light case management housing units. The NLHC has not yet announced when a decision will be made regarding this third contract.
Source and Publication Date
These updates were provided by the Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation in an announcement issued on October 23, 2026. The changes follow NLHC’s commitment to serving vulnerable residents through improved housing programs and case management services.
Source: westislandblog.com.
