‘Bay Gals’ group creates new friendships in St. Margaret’s Bay area

A phone call between sisters Jean (Bean) Martin and Donalda (Neb) Martin Gagnon in the aftermath of a damaging hurricane four years ago evolved into an idea to establish a social and wellness collective for women-over-50 that now draws about 200 members in St. Margaret’s Bay and surrounding communities.

The concept emerged after Hurricane Fiona, which left some residents without electricity and, at times, feeling stranded. Martin, who lives in the community of Lewis Lake, said the experience highlighted how fragile some social connections had become since the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We felt very isolated,” Martin said. “My sister lives five minutes away and I had no way to connect with her.”

Martin-Gagnon, who lives in nearby Hubley, agreed, and went a step further.

“I missed knowing my neighbours. I thought, what if we could build a community where people actually know each other again?”

Martin began organizing small gatherings and interest grew quickly. Within months, dozens of people were showing up to events. Today, the group’s membership spans the entire St. Margaret’s Bay area and beyond.

Martin coined the group “Bay Gals”, which offers everything from knitting circles and hikes to health workshops and emotional‑wellness sessions.

“Bay Gals” charges a $20 annual membership fee, a decision Martin resisted at first. In 2023, the first year, she paid all hall rentals and event costs out of her own pocket.

Funding from the Chebucto West Community Health Board ($2,000 last year and $3,000 this year) helped stabilize operations. The money covers hall rentals and accessible venues so members can attend events at no cost.

“We wouldn’t be able to do what we’re doing without that funding,” Martin-Gagnon said.

The Chebucto West Community Health Board is honoured to support programming that brings people together and strengthens the fabric of communities, said board member Moserere Alo.

“In a time when many people are experiencing loneliness and isolation, this group has created a welcoming community where women can find friendship, support and a true sense of belonging,” noted Alo. “The relationships being built through Bay Gals are improving lives in ways that cannot always be measured but are felt every day.”

The “Bay Gals” also support local businesses by hosting events at cafés and halls within the St. Margaret’s Bay area.

The group’s partnership with community health teams has led to free balance‑training courses, wellness workshops and a well‑attended menopause information session that drew nearly 100 people. Dietitians, physicians and other healthcare professionals have also taken part in “Bay Gals” events.

Martin said networking with community health board members at gatherings has been key to the group’s success and resiliency.

“BayGals” now hosts an annual health and wellness fair, which includes vaccine clinics, healthcare information booths and other services. The event is open to the entire community, not just members.

The group’s core mission is social connection. Members submit a short profile when they join, noting their interests. Those interests often become new subgroups, such as knitting, crafting, walking, golf, kayaking, paddleboarding, photography and pickleball.

“We encourage members to create events, too,” added Martin. “It can get tiring but there’s something happening almost every day.”

The group has also created a designated fund, supported by summer wateraerobics classes Martin teaches. The fund provides flowers, small gifts or support for members going through difficult times, such as illness or bereavement.

“We’re just showing up for people,” she said.

The sisters say the need for connection spans all ages. At a recent health fair at the Canada Games Centre they met young adults who had moved to Nova Scotia and felt deeply lonely.

“One woman said she finished university and was just left in limbo,” Martin indicated. “No friends, no community. I gave her my number. If she wants to start a group, I’ll help her.”

They were also invited to speak to psychology students at Acadia University. When Martin asked how many spent time together after class, not one student raised a hand.

“We’re living in a society that seems more into devices than to each other,” Martin-Gagnon said. “We’re trying to change that.”

“As we age, we think we’ve got it all figured out,” Martin added. “But we don’t. People need community. People need each other. People are not meant to be alone." 

Photo of “Bay Gals” founders Donalda (Neb) Martin-Gagnon, left, and Jean (Bean) Martin.