Historic Teen Haven Faces Imminent Closure Amidst Trustee Decision, Urgent Call for Community Support
Story By TNN’s Trevor Lindsay
In a deeply concerning turn of events, one of Bermuda’s longstanding institutions, Teen Haven, faces an uncertain future as it is forced to vacate its premises by October 31. This nearly 50-year-old organization, a sanctuary for young women in crisis, may be shuttered following a decision by the Haven trustees, Mr. Milton Scott former Min of Education, Mr. Dennis Burgess and Mr. Keith Smith, TNN spoke with key figures, including Ms. Roxanne Christopher, the current chair of Teen Haven Teen Services, Ms.Wendy Augustus and Mrs. Elaine Charles to understand the full scope of this impending crisis.
Speaking on behalf of the Teen Haven administration, Ms. Christopher explained the situation with an air of resolve mixed with frustration. “This decision to go public was not taken lightly,” she stated. “We’ve been trying to negotiate and work with the Haven trustees for approximately a year and a half. As the current chairman, I’ve been actively involved in these discussions, but despite our best efforts, we’re now being evicted.”
The eviction marks a devastating blow to Teen Haven, an organization founded by the late Ms. Olga Scott and Ms. Millisent Neverson, both of whom devoted their lives to providing a safe haven and support for vulnerable young women. While Ms. Neverson began fostering over 45 children at her own residence, she eventually partnered with Mrs. Scott to establish Teen Haven. Together, they expanded services under the broader Teen Services program, which included initiatives like the popular Teen Conference and the Outstanding Teen Awards.
Ms. Christopher emphasized the crucial role Teen Haven has played in the lives of countless young women, providing a lifeline for those facing abuse, housing insecurity, domestic violence, and other personal crises. “It is heartbreaking to consider that we may not be able to continue this legacy due to the decision of three male trustees who have taken a different direction, seeking to develop the building privately,” she said. “Teen Haven is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to helping women and children in need, and we have been committed to this mission for decades.”
The current crisis stems from the original Haven Trust document, drafted in the 1960s. Ms. Christopher described it as “vague and loosely written,” giving trustees considerable power without clearly designating Teen Haven as a beneficiary. Since the passing of Ms. Scott just two years ago, the trustees have reportedly shifted focus, emphasizing legal rights that allow them to repurpose the property for private development.
“It is painful to see this organization at risk,” Ms. Christopher continued, her voice breaking with emotion. “Over the years, hundreds of women and their children have walked through these doors, often coming from situations of extreme trauma. It is difficult enough for a woman to ask for help, let alone face the threat of eviction.”
Teen Haven has already begun preparing for the worst. Ms. Christopher noted that they have stopped taking in new residents to prevent further trauma and avoid the distressing possibility of a forced eviction. “These women and their children have suffered enough. We cannot allow them to be traumatized again by police and bailiffs on November 1,” she said.
In a heartfelt plea to the people of Bermuda, Ms. Christopher called upon the entire community to step up. “Bermuda, we need you. We need your support. Speak to your MPs, church members, and family. Many women who have come through Teen Haven have gone on to live successful, fulfilling lives. It is not too late to save this organization,” she urged.
Ms. Christopher and her team have vowed to continue their fight to preserve Teen Haven, but with the clock ticking, they know that this battle cannot be won alone. As the eviction date looms, the future of this Bermuda institution—and the safety net it provides to vulnerable young women—is uncertain.
With October 31 fast approaching, the administration and supporters of Teen Haven hope that their public call for help will resonate across the island. For them, this is not just a matter of property; it is a matter of preserving a legacy of compassion, resilience, and community support.
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