About EFryNB
Our Purpose
EFryNB supports women and gender-diverse people impacted by victimization and criminalization. We reach out to those who are freeing themselves from the cycles imposed by poverty, mental health issues, substance use concerns, homelessness, gender-based violence and criminalization. Individuals we work with engage in supports and services that lead to connection, growth, justice, and opportunity to move forward with hope and confidence from a position of strength.
Our Purpose
EFryNB supports women and gender-diverse people impacted by criminalization. We reach out to those who are freeing themselves from the cycles imposed by poverty, mental health issues, substance use concerns, homelessness, gender-based violence and criminalization. Individuals we work with engage in supports and services that lead to connection, growth, justice, and opportunity to move forward with hope and confidence from a position of strength.
Why
Women and gender-diverse people experience spaciousness, inclusivity, safety and acceptance to re-discover a sense of identity, belonging, and community. By creating conditions for change, women and gender-diverse individuals rise above social conditions that may lead to criminalization. Individuals become engaged in their communities for change and experience long-term economic stability. By providing integrated, trauma-informed, person-centred, strengths-based, innovative programming, women and gender-diverse individuals become engaged with court system reform, housing, and individual capacity building.
How
Collaboration, compassion, dignity, trust and social justice guide us. We believe in listening, connecting, acting with integrity and authenticity. We are accepting, caring and inclusive. We see, hear and value people where and how they are. We are dependable, transparent and uphold privacy. We foster a culture of learning and are strong advocates to create community awareness of issues that concern us.
How
Collaboration, compassion, dignity, trust and social justice guide us. We believe in listening, connecting, acting with integrity and authenticity. We are accepting, caring and inclusive. We see, hear and value people where and how they are. We are dependable, transparent and uphold privacy. We foster a culture of learning and are strong advocates to create community awareness of issues that concern us.
Our Story
In the heart of 1813, a compassionate quaker named Elizabeth Fry ventured into the depths of Newgate prison in London. Witnessing the dire conditions that women and children endured within its walls, she ignited a spark for change. Driven by a fervent desire to reform prison life, Elizabeth not only ushered in policy changes but also took direct action. She brought light to despair, providing education opportunities for women and home-schooling for the children. Her initiatives extended to offering food, clothing, and employment through an innovative social enterprise while teaching women the art of crafting blankets for sale in the bustling London.
Fast forward 174 years, and the legacy of Elizabeth Fry finds a new chapter in the insightful vision of Marian Perkins in Saint John. A caring and resilient single parent who had overcome personal hardships, Marian pursued higher education to become an addictions counsellor. Working in an addiction treatment centre, she witnessed the struggles of men and women post-release from prison. Fueled by empathy and a commitment to make a difference, she founded the Elizabeth Fry Society of Saint John, NB, Inc in 1987, a volunteer agency dedicated to supporting women in the criminal justice system. Marian’s vision materialized into a robust, volunteer led organization, with weekly one-on-one counselling, advocacy, and support services with women at the Saint John Correctional Centre. Teaming up with Marian Stack, an early childhood educator, the organization thrived under their leadership, earning prestigious accolades over the years:
- 2008 Order of New Brunswick
- 2010 New Brunswick Human Rights Award
- 2015 Fundy Wellness Champions
- 2015 Volunteer Spirit Award SJ Volunteer Centre
- 2018 The Literacy Coalition of New Brunswick’s Dr. Marilyn Trenholme Counsell Literacy Award in the category of Early Childhood Literacy.
- 2018 YWCA Woman of Distinction Award
- 2023 Queen Elizabeth Silver Jubilee Award
From its humble beginnings with committed volunteers, the organization evolved into Elizabeth Fry New Brunswick gaining provincial status in 2020. Today, with over 36 years of unwavering dedication, EFryNB stands proud as a champion for change. EFryNB addresses both individual needs and broader systemic issues, carving a path toward a better tomorrow for the province. As one of 22 EFry societies comprising the Canadian Association of Elizabeth Fry Societies (CAEFS), the journey continues with renewed vigor and a commitment to creating a brighter future for all.
Volunteers
Volunteer with us and make a big impact! Your passion can create thriving conditions for those affected by criminalization, gender-based violence, and home insecurity. Whether you have a few hours a week, a specific skill, or want to focus on a single event, your commitment can bring lasting, positive change. Join our dedicated team, contribute to our urban healing garden, provide housewarming baskets for My Place Apartments, or support individuals in the criminal or family court systems. Your caring touch can make our community safe and inclusive.
Student Interns
We welcome students wishing to complete their practicum hours as part of their recognized college or university requirements. We value student contributions in the follow areas of study:
• Social work
• Nursing
• Criminology
• Law
• Marketing and Communications
• Business
• Psychology
• Human Resources
• Human Services
• Social work
• Nursing
• Criminology
• Law
• Marketing and Communications
• Business
• Psychology
• Human Resources
• Human Services
ABOUT US
Breaking barriers for over 36 years, providing safe spaces, counselling, and social inclusion opportunities for women and gender-diverse individuals impacted by criminalization towards a community of belonging, strength, and empowerment. Proud member of the Canadian Association of Elizabeth Fry Societies, championing change and justice across the province.
CONTACT US
- 75 Adelaide St., Saint John, NB, E2K 1W4
- (506) 635 8851
- efry@nb.aibn.com
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- Copyright EFryNB 2025