Making a big move: residents settle in to new group homes
Sites part of pledge to support adults with intellectual disabilities: minister
Delores Brock grinned as she cut the ribbon at the grand opening of three group homes in Saskatoon.
“I like my new house,” said Brock, who until recently lived at Kinsmen Manor, a large facility on Arlington Avenue built in 1969 to support more than 30 adults with intellectual disabilities.
Now, Brock and her fellow residents are moving out into their own newly built houses around the city, where they will have 24/7 support in their own homes.
Brock said she has had a lot of fun decorating, and looks forward to hanging the ribbon up in her room.
“I picked the colour for my bedroom — it's blue,” she added.
It matches her sweater and trousers, and the lanyard where she keeps her house key.
At the grand opening on Friday morning, fellow resident Garry Barker was also very happy about the move.
“I really like my new home — much quieter than the Manor,” he said, laughing. “My new bedroom is really nice.”
Social Services Minister Gene Makowsky said opening these group homes represents “an exciting day for all of us in the ministry” and is part of the government's plan to build more supports for intellectually disabled adults.
It's an even more exciting day for the residents and their families, Makowsky added, offering his housewarming greetings.
“I wish you all the best in your new homes,” he said.
Twelve former Kinsmen Manor residents “now have an environment that offers them independence and access to wraparound supports within their community,” Makowsky said.
More group homes are in the works, including two in Saskatoon to house the eight remaining Kinsmen Manor residents.
Makowsky said it's part of the government's $7.6 million provincial budget promise to build 10 new group homes, along with one assessment and stabilization home.
“We (are) on this journey to create a province where everyone belongs and participates to the best of their ability in their communities,” he said.
Rachael Steinke, executive director of Elmwood Residences — which manages and operates the group homes — said this is only the first step in a major plan to improve the support, opportunities and resources available to intellectually disabled adults in Saskatoon.
When the last residents have moved out of Kinsmen Manor, Elmwood plans to turn it into a `community hub' with a gym, educational programs, a community garden and an integrated preschool.
“It's about breaking barriers and fostering a future where everyone belongs,” Steinke said.
(Residents) now have an environment that offers them independence and access to wraparound supports.