SASKATOON – A sod turning ceremony was held Monday afternoon marking the first step towards building a new group home in Saskatoon’s Varsity View neighbourhood. LutherCare Communities’ home will be an inclusive space that four individuals with intellectual disabilities can call home.
The total approved cost for this initiative is $1,049,895. This includes an upfront contribution of $250,000 by the Saskatchewan Ministry of Social Services.
LutherCare has contributed the cost of the land. The remaining capital construction cost will be covered through a mortgage.
“This new facility will look like any other home on the street. The residents will live as independently as possible supported by their caregivers in a non-institutional, family-style environment that will be linked to the wider community,” said LutherCare Communities CEO Vivienne Hauck.
READ MORE: New housing project opens for adults with cognitive disabilities
The 2,200 square foot home at 1226 Temperance Street will provide care to one person from Saskatoon and three from Valley View Centre in Moose Jaw, Sask.
Residents will have the opportunity to participate in on-site day programming, social skill building, recreation and therapeutic activities. All will have high medical needs.
“The person-centred planning process allows government to work collaboratively with individuals who have intellectual disabilities and their families in order to find them a home in a community of their choice,” said Saskatchewan social services minister Donna Harpauer.
The completion date for the project is dependent on the construction season ahead but the goal is late fall.
Since 1955, LutherCare has been providing care, shelter and support in Saskatoon.
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