Name Change Reflects Organizational Transformation and Community Leadership in Housing
St. Catharines, Ontario, 4 March 2026 — Bethlehem Housing and Support Services has officially adopted a new name: Second Story Community Homes and Services. The change was announced this evening during the 21st annual Empty Bowls fundraiser — the organization’s signature community event supporting affordable housing and essential services for individuals and families in Niagara.
The new name is part of a broader organizational transformation in response to the unprecedented housing crisis facing Niagara. It reflects the evolving role Second Story Community Homes and Services plays — not just as a provider of housing and support, but as a leader in building coordinated, community-based solutions to complex housing challenges.
Founded more than three decades ago by a collaboration of churches and agencies along Church Street in St. Catharines, the organization was created in response to a shared belief that housing stability is essential to dignity and community well-being. That founding commitment to compassion, accountability, and practical support continues to guide the organization’s work today, even as its role and reach have evolved.
The name change was one of the findings of the Transformational Plan, a strategic process led by the Board of Directors to clarify the organization’s role, improve system impact, and strengthen public understanding of its work. A goal of the plan included choosing a name that could hold both the legacy and the future of the organization — one that respected its faith-based roots while also reflecting its long-established secular approach and community mandate.
“This is not just a new name. It’s a clearer expression of the work we’ve been doing for years — helping people find stability and build the next chapter of their lives. Second Story is about foundation and forward motion. It’s about housing, support, and what comes next.”
Lori Beech, Executive Director
The organization’s mission, values, and services remain unchanged. Second Story Community Homes and Services continues to provide permanent affordable housing and practical support for individuals and families across St. Catharines and the Niagara region. With 280 households supported across three sites and a 98% housing retention rate, the organization remains focused on long-term impact and housing stability.
“This is a strategic shift, not a symbolic one. The name change is one outcome of the Board’s work to ensure we’re positioned for clarity, collaboration, and leadership in a system that urgently needs all three.”
Bryon Johnston, Board Chair
The announcement took place at Empty Bowls, a long-standing community fundraiser that brings together Niagara’s chefs, potters, and residents to support affordable housing. Now in its 21st year, the event blends food, art, and shared commitment — making it the ideal moment to introduce a name that speaks to both resilience and renewal.
Everyone has a second story. To mark the transition, Second Story Community Homes and Services is inviting community members to share their own — a reflection on a turning point, a second chance, or a new beginning. Stories may come from clients, staff, volunteers, donors, partners, or anyone whose experience resonates with the idea behind the name.
“Over the coming weeks and months, we’ll be sharing more of this transformation — not just through announcements, but through real stories. Because this isn’t something we’re doing alone. It’s through shared effort and shared resilience that real housing transformation becomes possible.”
Lori Beech, Executive Director
For more information, or to share your Second Story, visit secondstoryhomes.ca.