N.S. non-profit MetroWorks declares bankruptcy after 48 years, cafés close

Nova Scotia nonprofit MetroWorks has closed its doors after declaring bankruptcy, ending several programs.

After 48 years of operations in Nova Scotia, non-profit organization MetroWorks has declared bankruptcy, resulting in the closure of two library cafés.

According to the MetroWorks website, the company, which was founded in 1977, filed for bankruptcy on Thursday.

“Unfortunately, over the last number of years, MetroWorks has experienced a series of financial setbacks,” the website reads. “Despite extensive efforts to stabilize our financial position, MetroWorks has reached a point where continuing operations is no longer sustainable.

“We would like to thank our generous program sponsors, clients, community, and dedicated staff for their commitment to the communities we have served over the years.”

The Department of Opportunities and Social Development provided $2.479 million to MetroWorks in the 2024-2025 fiscal year, according to communications director Sarah Levy MacLeod. It included an additional $700,000 to help the company “address cash flow challenges.”

“To be clear, there was no funding cut – quite the opposite," MacLeod said in an email. “We have been working closely with the MetroWorks board of directors over the last several months to address their challenges. We requested a plan from the board detailing what it would take to get back to financial health and continue programming; the board made the decision to file for bankruptcy instead.”

In an emailed statement, MetroWorks said it worked with the province to find a solution, but “there was no viable path forward to get back to financial health.”

The Ampersand Café, which operates at the Halifax Central Library and Keshen Goodman Public Library, is managed by MetroWorks. According to Halifax Public Libraries, both locations have now closed.

“We valued our collaboration with MetroWorks over the past years and recognize the value café service provides to the community,” said Kashmala Khan, communications officer with Halifax Public Libraries, in an email. “We will begin the process to find a new partner for the cafés at both Keshen Goodman Public Library and Halifax Central Library immediately.”

The Ampersand Café opened at the Central Library in 2022.

MetroWorks is responsible for numerous social programs and enterprises, including the Cunard Learning Centre, the Stone Hearth Bakery program, OPTIONS Work Activity, Newcomer Women, MoneyPath Atlantic, EDGE (a job search program) and the Common Roots Urban Farm.

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