Saint Leonard’s Society of Nova Scotia warmly welcomed Nehiley House, a Community Based Residential Facility, exclusively for female offenders; the first of its kind in the Atlantic Region, on Monday, June 13^th, 2005.  Nehiley House opened its doors to the female residents who were being housed at Sir Sanford Fleming House.  At Nehiley House, the resident’s progress towards a pro-social lifestyle is only second to our first and fore-most concern, public safety. 

Nehiley House supports and engages our residents in a women-centered environment.  The location, structure and services offered reflect the needs of the women it serves and the atmosphere will promote growth, healthy living and foster self esteem and empowerment.  Cultural differences will be acknowledged and respected, with an overall sense of personal choice.  The overall goal Saint Leonard’s Society of Nova Scotia hopes to accomplish is assisting and allowing these women to live with dignity and self-respect in the community they are so much a part of.  Nehiley House will assist new residents in finding supports and resources available in the Halifax Regional Municipality and surrounding areas. 

The facility is a clean, spacious, bright and naturally lit, with a homey atmosphere.  There is a communal living space, kitchen, dining area, single/double bedrooms, and a private area designated for cultural ceremonies or meditation.  The women will be responsible for the cleanliness of the facility and will follow their case plans through program participation, skills training, job seeking, and upgrading their education. Balanced and nutritious meals are prepared 7 days a week. Laundry services are also provided on-site, along with a phone for local calls, and cable television in a common area.