The Bridgewater drop-in center operated by the John Howard Society is being defended against calls for relocation by Mayor David Mitchell due to concerns surrounding violence, drug use, and loitering in the area. The society’s director of strategic projects, Sean Kelly, emphasized their commitment to providing essential services to clients and assisting them in their journey towards recovery and stability. Addressing community concerns, additional security staff have been hired to manage issues such as sidewalk congestion, with a newly built gazebo on-site to enhance client comfort and discourage loitering.
Despite the mayor’s call for relocation, Kelly highlighted the importance of the center’s presence for clients who rely on the support it offers. Services at Cedar Place include access to meals, haircuts, and employment assistance, all contributing to community safety and well-being. Responding to criticisms from Mayor Mitchell about the center’s impact on the community, Kelly reiterated the positive role they play in supporting those in need.
In a social media post, Mayor Mitchell expressed skepticism about the center’s effectiveness, questioning the metrics used to evaluate its success. The ongoing tension between the John Howard Society and the community underscores differing perspectives on the center’s value and impact.
