The North End Family Centre welcomed community members at its new building on Saturday.

The charity opened in October 2009 to fill gaps in the community, offering free laundry, free phone use, and a safe space.

But the centre soon grew out of its space on 1322 Main St.

After years of fundraising and renovations, the North End Family Centre opened its doors at a new space on 1344 Main St.

Founder and Executive Director Kyle Mason said the new building is triple the size of the old one.

“With our new space, we have a community group room, where we’re able to offer groups, and workshops and classes,” said Mason.

He said there is also a community shop with soap, shampoo and hygiene products, as well as a kitchen.

Mason plans to use the new spaces to hold kitchen and after-school programs in the future.

He said the new building will continue to create connections in the community.

“It doesn’t matter who you are, or what your background is. We all need to be a part of a community. And we believe that you can have lasting, deeper change when you do it in a community, as opposed to doing it in isolation,” said Mason.

Michelle Johnson said she was the first person to use the North End Family Centre when it opened.

“It’s brought a lot of people closer, a lot of people that are isolated,” said Johnson.

She now volunteers at the centre. Johnson said that the North End Family Centre has had a big impact on the community and on her life.

“This has made such a difference in my life, it really has. It’s given me more self-confidence, helped me meet more people, network, get out in the area more, sense of purpose,” said Johnson.

The North End Family Centre is still raising funds to cover the renovation.

It needs $30,000 to cover the cost completely.