Lunenburg, NS – Second Story Women’s Centre (SSWC) is proud to announce that we are now the official owners of our longtime home at 18 Dufferin Street – the former Lunenburg Train Station.
The purchase was made possible through the support of generous community donors and with the help of many, including current and former members of SSWC’s Board of Directors, key advisory supporters and Town of Lunenburg staff, mayor and council. SSWC has rented the building from the Town of Lunenburg for the past 13 years.
“Second Story Women’s Centre provides vital services and support for people across our region, and we are incredibly fortunate to have this important organization based here in Lunenburg,” said Lunenburg Mayor, Jamie Myra. “Having a permanent home will help ensure their work can continue to grow and serve our communities for years to come, and the Town is very pleased to have played a part in helping make this a reality.”
The building has been an ideal home for SSWC. Set back from the road while remaining accessible, it offers privacy without isolation, ample and discreet parking and a warm, welcoming environment. Inside, the layout supports both private counselling and group programming with several counselling offices, open gathering spaces and a full kitchen.
“This is more than a building or a place we come to work – it’s a place where people come for support, safety and connection,” said Stephanie Balcome, Executive Director of SSWC.
“Like its history as a train station, it continues to welcome people at different points in their journey, helps them make connections and supports them as they move forward.”
From this location, Second Story supports women and gender diverse people, provides safer spaces and advocates for meaningful change. Annually, the centre delivers more than 1200 counselling sessions, hosts over 80 group programs, provides food support and access to essential personal products, hosts educational sessions and offers daily support through advocacy, referrals and systems navigation that reach many across Lunenburg and Queens Counties.
Owning the building provides long-term stability for the organization, allowing Second Story to continue services and programs and ensures this space remains available for those who need it.
“We’re deeply grateful to the community for making this possible,” said Rebecca Zolkower, Board Member of Second Story Women’s Centre. “This purchase helps to secure the future of services that so many rely on.”
Media Contact:
Stephanie Balcome, Executive Director
exec@secstory.com
(902) 640-3044
Second Story Women’s Centre (SSWC) supports women and gender-diverse people in Lunenburg and Queens Counties. We offer free, low-barrier services like one-on-one counselling, crisis support, safety planning, and help navigating systems. We also run workshops, support groups, and wellness programs to reduce isolation, build skills, and strengthen community connections. Our youth programs focus on leadership, positive relationships, confidence, and early support. Alongside direct services, we advocate for individuals and work with partners to raise awareness and address gender inequality— helping create a safer, more supportive community for everyone.