Leaders in Bermuda’s charitable sector are lamenting the pending closure of Teen Haven and Teen Services – and the pressure it may put on other third sector services
Leaders in Bermuda’s charitable sector are lamenting the pending closure of Teen Haven and Teen Services – and the pressure it may put on other third sector services.
“It’s always sad to see a viable, a once viable charity, close their doors”, said Sheelagh Cooper, Chair of Habitat Bermuda.
Teen Services and Teen Haven have provided support and shelter for teenage and young mothers for more than half a century.
However, the board of the charity stated on Sunday that “longstanding operational and financial challenges” have prompted a decision to cease operations at the end of the year.
Kelly Hunt, Executive Director of the Coalition for the Protection of Children, says it is a “sad day”, as young people – particularly those with their own children – need housing and other services to help them navigate difficult times.
“The 16–24-year-old group is a population that is especially underserved”, she says, “so the closure of Teen Services creates a significant gap in the island’s continuum of care.”
Sheelagh Cooper of Habitat, also bemoans the charities’ closure, while highlighting its work.
She says, “that charity is a victim of their own success, in some ways…
“We’ve seen a huge decline in the number of teenage pregnancies over the years. And to some extent, their advocacy, and their support, and their educational programs were responsible for that.
“So they’ve made a contribution over the years that has been very significant.”
Dr Sandy De Silva, Executive Director of the Family Centre, echos Ms Cooper’s comments somewhat, citing that teen birth rates have declined globally and locally.
Dr De Silva says “Bermuda’s 2025 Statistics also shows fewer births to mothers under 20, with 14 recorded in 2015 compared with two in 2024.”
“These figures are encouraging, but the young people and families who need help must continue to have access to appropriate support.”
Concerns have been raised over what will happen to those who may currently be sheltered at the Pembroke headquarters.
Sheelagh Cooper added, “I do hope that… housing will be found for them. Because of course, that’s a major problem… Especially for that sector, particularly mothers and children.”
In January 2025, Teen Services and Teen Haven reported that its residential facility was full, with 24 residents.
Kelly Hunt of the Coalition says the closure of Teen Services “adds increased pressure on other helping agencies who are likewise stretched thin.”
“We need to ensure that Bermuda’s social safety net remains strong, and we can only have that impact as a collective.”
Dr De Silva says that the loss of even one service provider in Bermuda can impact the community, while adding that the Family Centre is expanding its offerings.
TFC currently offers free counselling services to families with children and young people aged 4–18, and will expand services to 24 years olds in 2027.
Meanwhile, Government says that work is underway to identify suitable accommodation and support options for Teen Haven residents.
