When Hurricane Fiona swept through Canada’s Atlantic provinces on September 24–25, it tore through more than power lines and rooftops. For many people in Nova Scotia, the storm disrupted routines, spaces, and sources of stability that already felt fragile. In the weeks that followed, World Renew walked alongside local churches and community partners to listen and learn where support would matter most—and where hope was already taking root.
A Safe Place Hit Hard
In Glace Bay, Nova Scotia, a youth support agency called Undercurrent has long been a steady presence for children and young people navigating absent parents, mental health challenges, and addiction. For many, Undercurrent offers not just programs, but belonging.
At the heart of this work is “the Abbey,” a former monastic building donated to Undercurrent four years ago. Since then, it has become woven into daily life in Glace Bay—serving as both a residence and a welcoming community centre where young people can gather, feel safe, and be seen.
When Hurricane Fiona hit, the Abbey took the brunt of the damage. Its roof was demolished in the storm, and additional damage affected the building itself as well as two other nearby structures Undercurrent relies on. The storm didn’t just damage walls and beams; it put pressure on an already overstretched network of care, even as the needs of young people in the community grew more urgent.
Yet the story did not end there. With support from people like you, Undercurrent began the difficult work of rebuilding. While insurance covered some losses, many labour and reconstruction costs did not qualify, and finding safe housing for youth remained an immediate concern. Contributions helped provide essential building materials—small but critical steps toward restoring a space that means home, safety, and possibility for many young people.
Meeting Needs, One Meal at a Time
Across the Maritimes, the aftermath of Fiona revealed other urgent needs. The Salvation Army, which has served communities in Nova Scotia for more than 140 years, saw demand for food assistance rise sharply in the wake of the storm. Families were dealing with damaged homes, lost income, and empty cupboards.
Through gifts directed to The Salvation Army, World Renew supporters helped restock food banks in the hardest‑hit areas. Together, this meant that families had access to meals during a difficult season, including the weeks leading up to Christmas—a tangible expression of care when it was most needed.
Thank you for being part of World Renew’s work of accompaniment and recovery. In the wake of a devastating storm, your support helped strengthen places of belonging and ensured that people facing immense challenges were not facing them alone.
