Green Acres Foundation recognized

Green Acres Foundation has been recognized by the Alberta government with the Minister’s Seniors Service Award in the Nonprofit category.

The award was presented in Edmonton last Friday with board members Cynthia Papworth and Roger Hohm accepting it on behalf of the foundation.

The Minister’s Seniors Service Awards recognize individuals, businesses, and nonprofits who support seniors, lead the way for improved services and contribute to a strong community.

In a statement, Green Acres said this week that it “is honoured to receive this recognition for our innovative program for senior citizens in our area. This “safe suite” program was created in partnership with the Lethbridge Elder Abuse Resource Network (LEARN).

“We provide safe accommodations and services within our lodge communities for seniors experiencing or at risk of experiencing some sort of abuse. This allows the much-needed time for the LEARN consultant to assist in getting the senior’s affairs in order. Since its inception in 2017, this program has helped over 20 individuals by providing safe, temporary, and emergent housing away from an abusive home situation.

“Along with being the first program of its kind in Alberta, the “safe suite” program has received commendation as the first in Canada. We are proud that the Government of Alberta is now endorsing our model throughout the province due to the positive outcomes and the cost effectiveness,” said the foundation.

“Many of these clients have become permanent residents at our senior communities after their temporary stay. Safety is a top priority at Green Acres Foundation and in a 2023 survey, 98 per cent of our residents said they felt safe in their facility.”