SASKATOON — The grand opening of three new group homes in Saskatoon was celebrated Friday.
Social Services Minister Gene Makowsky and representatives from Elmwood Residences Inc. celebrated the opening of facilities that provide care to 12 former residents of Kinsmen Manor who have transitioned into community-based living.
The Ministry of Social Services is providing Elmwood Residences Inc. with approximately $1.78 million in annualized funding to operate these homes that are leased from Saskatchewan Housing Corporation.
Two more Elmwood group homes will be constructed in Saskatoon to accommodate the remaining eight residents of Kinsmen Manor.
The three new group homes that have opened are providing residential services and community wraparound supports to individuals with intellectual disabilities. The home-like model of these new homes offers independence for residents while also meeting accessibility and safety needs, according to the ministry.
"Today's celebration is doubly exciting," Elmwood Residences Inc. Executive Director Rachael Steinke said. "Not only will all the residents we serve find themselves settled in their new homes but we are also now able to fully embrace the planning and design of our community hub initiative.
“This initiative provides supports for the health, wellness, community inclusion and housing of our residents and is an intentional, intergenerational and inclusive model that welcomes all members of the Saskatoon community."
Elmwood Residences is a non-profit organization that has supported individuals with intellectual disabilities through residential services since 1969 when Kinsmen Manor was built. Their mission is to provide individualized care and support that nurtures growth, wellbeing and belonging for people living with intellectual disabilities. For more information, visit: https://www.elmwoodyxe.ca/.
