CONSTRUCTION STARTS FOR NEW GROUP HOME IN MOOSE JAW

Moose Jaw Families for Change today launched construction of a new group home in Moose Jaw.

The new home, called Kinsmen Home, will provide a long-term, community-based residence for four individuals with physical and intellectual disabilities, allowing them to remain in their home community. The home will be fully accessible, and will provide complete staffing supports for its residents.

The provincial government contributed a one-time capital grant of $50,000 toward construction costs of the new home, and will fund a major portion of the operating costs on an ongoing basis. The annualized grant from Community Resources and Employment will be $224,390 when the home is fully operational. Numerous other organizations and individuals have made contributions toward the total cost of construction estimated at just over $300,000.

"This is another example of our government's commitment to supporting individuals with disabilities," Hagel said during a ceremony in Moose Jaw. "It represents the collaboration of individuals, the community, and government in helping citizens in need. I commend the hard work, dedication, and enthusiasm displayed by Moose Jaw Families for Change over the past several years in their efforts to raise funds and awareness."

"It is wonderful to see our efforts paying off today as we officially launch construction of the new home," Moose Jaw Families for Change Chairperson Carolyn Scidmore said. "We have been working for six years to build a support base and to develop services for individuals with disabilities in the Moose Jaw area, so this is a big day for us."

Moose Jaw Families for Change Inc. is a non-profit, grass roots initiative of families and individuals that has been working in partnership with various levels of government and community organizations.

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For More Information, Contact:

Janet Miller Community Resources and Employment Regina Phone: (306)787-0531

Carolyn Scidmore Moose Jaw Families for Change Inc. Moose Jaw Phone: (306)693-1540