The Gina Spence Programme, known across Bermuda for its dedicated support to those grieving after loss and tragedy, has moved to a new home.
Thanks to a collaboration with Habitat for Humanity Bermuda, the charity has switched from Pathways Bermuda in Smith’s to the Bermudiana Arcade, Queen Street, Hamilton.
It brings upgraded facilities and renewed hope to many, ensuring the charity continues its crucial work under a new roof.
Gina Spence, the programme’s founder, told RG Construction that the new surroundings will better serve the community’s needs – now and in the future.
Ms Spence said: “Growing demand and accessibility were the key drivers. The previous location, while beneficial during its tenure, was always intended as a temporary solution and became inadequate to handle the increasing number of individuals and families seeking assistance.
“Relocating to the Bermudiana Arcade removed those barriers and means more people can receive the support they need, when they need it most, in a safe, welcoming and dignified environment.”
The new facility is a purpose-built therapeutic environment, thoughtfully designed to support the unique needs of those dealing with grief and loss. Every element prioritises confidentiality, calm and emotional safety.
This careful planning ensures that each person who walks through their doors feels safe, supported and less alone during their most vulnerable moments.
From a practical standpoint, this move allows the Gina Spence Programme to significantly enhance and expand its services.
“The new facility allows us to support more people, more consistently, and with greater care,” Ms Spence said.
The improved space will facilitate the expansion of the Healing Hearts individual and group counselling services, along with grief awareness, education and outreach programmes such as Grief Connect and workshops.
The project also showcases the impressive synergy between charities and the construction sector in Bermuda.
“This project demonstrates the power of collaboration in creating lasting community impact,” Ms Spence said.
Sandra Christensen, executive director of Habitat for Humanity Bermuda, said extensive renovation work was needed to improve the facilities.
“This involved a total gut job of the space which originally had two rooms and was ultimately opened up to create one large space,” she said.
“Rewiring and new electrical and lights were required as well as drywall which was installed, sanded, finished and painted. We also built new partitions to create divided spaces where the Gina Spence Programme can offer healing and transformative services to those in need.”
Ms Christensen said Habitat for Humanity was always willing to collaborate with charities that aligned with its mission to help the vulnerable in Bermuda.
“The work was done pro bono in support of this wonderful charity and all of the good work they do in our community.”
Ms Spence said the charity, which she founded more than 35 years ago, was “deeply grateful” to Habitat for Humanity Bermuda for their exceptional partnership.
Not only has it resulted in creating a purpose-built space that is accessible and safe, but thanks to the intentionality behind the design the non-profit can continue to offer care, ensuring that no one on the island has to grieve alone.
She said addressing grief and loss in our community was a shared responsibility – and partnerships like this “show what’s possible when organisations come together to strengthen and heal our community”.
For more information on Gina Spence Programme, visit gspcharity.com.
