South Shore Sexual Health Society

The South Shore Sexual Health Society, also known as South Shore Sexual Health, is a Canadian nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting sexual and reproductive health across the lifespan. It operates primarily in Lunenburg and Queens Counties on Nova Scotia's South Shore.

History and Evolution

The organization began as a small project in 1988 at the Second Story Women's Centre in Bridgewater, Nova Scotia. Initially, it was part of a Planned Parenthood initiative but later evolved into an independent entity. Over the years, it has undergone several name changes, reflecting its expanded focus beyond family planning to a broader sexual health agenda. It was previously known as Planned Parenthood Bridgewater, then Planned Parenthood Lunenburg County, and later Sexual Health Centre Lunenburg County.

Mission and Services

The mission of South Shore Sexual Health is to provide information, education, and services that support informed and responsible attitudes toward sexuality. The organization offers a variety of core services, including:

• Education Workshops: Delivering comprehensive sexual health education through workshops tailored for diverse age groups and needs.
• Outreach Programs: Engaging with local communities to ensure access to sexual health resources and support.
• Pregnancy Testing and Options Guidance: Providing confidential pregnancy testing and counseling on available options.
• Free or Low-Cost Health Supplies: Distributing free or low-cost health supplies such as condoms, dams, and lubricants to promote safe sexual practices.
• Individual Guidance and Peer Counselling: Offering one-on-one support and peer counseling for individuals seeking advice on sexual health matters.
• Resources and Lending Library: Maintaining a collection of resources and books for borrowing to facilitate continued learning.

Partnerships and Affiliations

South Shore Sexual Health is a member centre of Sexual Health Nova Scotia, which provides it with funding support. It is also affiliated with Action Canada for Sexual Health and Rights, enabling access to low-cost health supplies and additional resources.

Values and Approach

The organization is known for being pro-choice, youth-friendly, and inclusive of the 2SLGBTQ+ community. It strives to create an environment where everyone can seek sexual health information and services without fear or judgment.

Funding and Growth

South Shore Sexual Health operates with core funding and seeks to leverage additional support through grants and local projects. This funding structure allows it to expand its reach and better meet the sexual health needs of its community.

[1] https://southshoresexualhealth.com/aboutus/ [2] https://www.sexualhealthlunenburg.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/SECS-Guide.pdf [3] https://www.sexualhealthlunenburg.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/SHCLC-Annual-Report-2017-18-1.pdf [4] https://www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/sssh/ [5] https://southshoresexualhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/Annual-Report-2018-2019.pdf