The three therapies are just a few of the services offered at the new Stevensville site of Wellspring Niagara.

On Tuesday the satellite centre officially began to offer cancer support programs to the community. Programs which are designed to help cancer patients and their families cope with the emotional side of the disease. Programs which meet the emotional, social, psychological and informational needs of people living with cancer, and those who care for them.

"It takes a lot of courage for anybody to walk through the doors. Some people feel alone or afraid. But once they do come through the doors they will realize right away it's a safe and friendly environment," said executive director Ann Mantini-Celima. "It's a cheerful place and a safe haven."

The new satellite centre is located at 2763 Stevensville Rd. The Thorold-based organization serves residents from throughout the region, but given the distance to Fort Erie, residents without transportation may find it difficult to utilize Wellspring's services, said Mantini-Celima.

So when Meridian Credit Union offered the 1,315 sq. ft. space rent free for two years, Mantini-Celima jumped at the opportunity.

"I'm still in shock. I can't believe we're here setting up," she said. "We know from what we see at the Thorold site there is a need, but to be able to reach out to a community like the Fort Erie that has traditionally had difficulty accessing services, it's wonderful. It's our first day of providing peer support and calls are coming in."

Wellspring seeks individuals from Fort Erie and across Niagara to assist with peer support, front desk and fundraising initiatives.

The satellite centre, which will be open Tuesday and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., will house many of the programs that exist at the main site, including free support programs and coping skill programs such as tai chi and yoga for cancer patients and their families.

An official grand opening is set for June 4 in conjunction with Wellspring Niagara's seventh anniversary. There will also be a community barbecue. For more information, call 905-684-7619.