The YMCA of Owen Sound Grey Bruce is preparing to launch a new location in the heart of Port Elgin, a move that will significantly broaden access to several key community programs in Bruce County. The organization is setting up at 604 Goderich Street, creating a dedicated space for Employment Services, Settlement Services, and Community Initiatives.
Although these supports have long been available across Grey and Bruce Counties by appointment, the establishment of a permanent Bruce County office is expected to make it easier for residents to connect with the resources they need. The Port Elgin site will include a fully accessible resource centre featuring computers, telephones, and comfortable spaces for meetings and one-on-one support.
Staff from the YMCA’s Employment and Settlement teams will be based at the location daily, while other YMCA programs will rotate through the office as needed to meet with clients and community partners. The YMCA says the new centre will serve as a welcoming spot where people can access guidance, build connections, and take steps toward personal and professional growth.
“Our YMCA is proud to serve communities across Grey and Bruce Counties,” said Sarah Cowley, CEO of the YMCA of Owen Sound Grey Bruce. “From our Health, Fitness & Aquatics facility in Owen Sound to our Child Care and School Age programs in Owen Sound, Port Elgin, Ripley, Kincardine, and Hanover, we are deeply connected to the people and places we serve. With Community Initiatives, Employment Services, and Settlement Services currently based in Owen Sound and Hanover, it’s exciting to now have another home base in Bruce County. This new Port Elgin location helps us continue growing our impact and reaching even more people to help ignite their potential.”
The new office is expected to strengthen how the YMCA delivers Employment Ontario programming, which is supported by both the federal and provincial governments. These programs help individuals prepare for work, develop résumés, sharpen interview skills, access training, and connect with local employers through the county’s Employment Service System Manager.
Settlement Services, funded by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, will also be based at the new location. These supports assist newcomers as they integrate into Canadian life, offering help with language development, citizenship processes, community connections, and access to recreation, education, and other local programs.
“Our mission is to strengthen communities and empower individuals,” added Matt Shute, Director of Community Initiatives, Employment Services, and Settlement Services. “Having a dedicated location in downtown Port Elgin allows us to be more accessible to residents of Bruce County. It means people will have a welcoming place nearby to access employment supports, settlement services, and community programs that can truly change lives. We’re excited to deepen our presence and build stronger connections in this community.”
The YMCA’s Community Initiatives division will also make use of the new space. These programs address barriers such as poverty, discrimination, mental health concerns, and rural homelessness, and include youth supports, community justice initiatives, and homelessness-response services delivered in partnership with Bruce County Housing.
The organization said the Port Elgin expansion reflects an ongoing commitment to broadening opportunities and helping people realize their potential. Renovations are currently underway, with signage going up soon, and the official opening date will be announced.
