Welcome to Second Story Community Homes and Services
Formerly Bethlehem Housing and Support Services
We have a new name - After 38 years as Bethlehem Housing and Support Services, we are now Second Story Community Homes and Services.
In 2025, our Board adopted a Transformational Plan in response to Niagara's growing housing crisis. It called on us to clarify our role, strengthen our partnerships, and align our public identity with the work we do every day.
Our Mission
Second Story Community Homes and Services, in partnership with the community, provides affordable housing and services to support the personal growth of individuals and families.
Our Vision
Stable affordable housing and support services contribute to a vibrant, caring and inclusive Niagara where everyone has a home.
Our Values
We are where second stories begin.
What that looks like in practice
households stably housed across St. Catharines and Niagara Falls.
of people who leave our Transitional Housing program remain housed.
of long-term tenants remain stably housed through our eviction prevention work.
years of supporting second stories in Niagara.
Everyone Has a Second Story
For some, it begins with a key to a home key and the support they need to hold onto that key, like William and his son. He was injured on the job, leading to him living in a hotel room with minimal income. Then he won custody of his son and everything changed.
"I came to the realization that I was no longer just taking care of myself. I had my son who needed a good life, a loving father, and a family that loves him." It was time to ask for help. He was referred to Bethlehem Place. While he was nervous walking in, what he found were people who genuinely wanted to help.
"The worker was always accommodating and would tell me to drop by. I could not believe all the times they would go out of their way to help me." The call came. A two-bedroom apartment was available. His son moved in. They built a life that belonged to them on the scaffolding of programs, activities, and community provided through Bethlehem Place.
His son, happy and healthy, is now enrolled in school. They have a permanent home. "We could not be happier where we are today. Thank you to the community that made this all possible and made my dream a reality."
Share your second story
Everyone has a second story.
It might be a move to a new city or country. A career change. A health journey. The end of something hard or the beginning of something new. A door that opened at just the right moment, or a hand that helped you through it.
- What was life like before your turning point?
- What shifted and what helped you through it?
- How are you different now? What became possible that wasn't before?
Share as much or as little as you like.