The Haven harm reduction centre opens in Brussels
BY SCOTT STEPHENSON
Located in The DeWit building at 422 Turnberry Street, the new harm reduction centre in Brussels is called The Haven because it hopes to literally be a safe, non-judgmental place for any member of the community that finds themselves at risk of undue harm.
The Haven acknowledges that modern life is full of modern risks, and strives to assist any individual in need on their journey towards living a fulfilling and purposeful life. Their approach to community assistance is centred around helping clients to identify their individual values, cultivate self awareness, set goals and create actual steps towards achieving them.
Proprietor Leesa Stephenson is originally from Listowel, and moved to Kitchener-Waterloo in the early 1990s. There, she faced challenges with substance health, which led to homelessness. Discovering harm reduction, she gradually embraced it as a path towards recovery, valuing its principles over immediate abstinence. This approach eventually helped her achieve her goal of sobriety.
Harm reduction centres are often associated with drug use, but Stephenson wants locals to know that it’s so much more than that. It means, quite simply, trying to reduce harm in any way possible. “I happened to be a gay person in rural Ontario in the 80s - not a great idea,” she explained. “We don’t just deal with addiction [at The Haven], we try to address social dynamics.”
Stephenson’s journey took her to the University of Waterloo, where she earned a BA in Social Development Studies. She then dedicated six years to the AIDS Committee of Cambridge, Kitchener, Waterloo, and Area as an outreach co-ordinator, notably contributing to early naloxone distribution efforts and supporting individuals through SafePoint Needle Exchange.
Returning to Listowel 14 years ago to care for her ailing father, and later her mother with dementia, Stephenson expanded her understanding of harm reduction to everyday safety practices and its importance for seniors.
When she relocated to Brussels and began working as a therapist specializing in deep muscle therapy, manual lymphatic drainage, and cranio-sacral therapy, the role rekindled her passion for helping others, so she combined her personal recovery experience and professional background to launch The Haven. This initiative aims to enhance the wellbeing and safety of her adopted community, reflecting her commitment to supporting others on their paths to recovery and healthier living.
One of the main goals Stephenson currently has is getting local businesses on board. “I want them to know that this is a super positive thing. The Purple Bike Café has just been amazing - so supportive!” The other thing she needs - the donation of a few more card tables. “Food donations are also always welcome - it’s all about asking ‘am I in a better place today than I was yesterday?’ Do enough of those things, and you’ll be in a much better place!”
While they are subject to change, The Haven’s current hours are Monday, 1-4 p.m. for 60+ drop in; Thursday, 3-9 p.m. for all ages drop in; Friday, 5-9 p.m. for all ages drop in; and (first and third of the month) Saturday, 1-5 p.m for all ages drop in.