yesterday.

The Haven -- formerly the Ridgeway Home on Berkeley Road -- underwent more than $300,000 worth of renovations during the past two years.

And officials, including those from Teen Services which runs the facility and Social Services, were hoping to have the first residents move in by next week.

According to acting director Mrs. Sharon Wilkinson, four people have been interviewed so far.

Renovations to the facility included an additional small wing -- giving the matron more space and privacy -- and seven bedrooms and five bathrooms which allowed it to accommodate nine residents.

Residents will also have the support of more staff and have access to Teen Services' Continuation School.

Unlike the previous operation, which took in young women of various ages, the refurbished Haven will provide temporary accommodation and support services for young women aged 17 to 21.

And Teen Services will aim to help the residents acquire proper education and life skills necessary to function as independent, productive members of society, Haven Trust chairman Mrs. Olga Scott has promised.

Guidance on being a good parent and provider will also be provided to residents who are mothers.

For those not yet mothers, encouragement will be given to first make something of their lives before having children, with appropriate counselling on preventing unplanned or unwanted pregnancies.

Teen Services will also ensure that Haven residents receive whatever additional support services they need, either directly or by arrangement with appropriate sources.

Pictured, from left, are The Haven trustee Mr. Vernon Jackson, Social Services Minister the Hon. Harry Soares, Mr. Edness, The Haven acting director Mrs.

Sharon Wilkinson who received the key from Mr. Jackson, Haven Trust chairman Mrs. Olga Scott, and acting chairman of Teen Services board Sen. Milton Scott.