APARTMENT FOR RESIDENTS WITH INTELLECTUAL DISABILITIES OPENS IN SWIFT CURRENT

Adults with intellectual disabilities and mental health issues in Swift Current and area have better access to quality affordable housing following the official opening today of a new 11-unit rental project.

The project was made possible by a $847,000 grant from the province earlier this year. Southwest Homes Inc. of Swift Current, a community-based organization (CBO), contributed more than $37,000 to the project, and has assumed a mortgage of nearly $113,000.

"Southwest Homes has been a leader in the Swift Current area since it opened its first group home 35 years ago by providing much-needed programs and services to people with intellectual disabilities," Premier Brad Wall said. "The provincial government is proud to support the work done by Executive Director Susie Eidem, the board members, partners and all of the volunteers who strive to improve the lives of people with intellectual disabilities in the southwest."

The project involved the acquisition and renovation of an existing vacant apartment block on 3rd Avenue North East in Swift Current. The renovated building consists of three bachelor units, seven one-bedroom units and one two-bedroom unit. The building includes a common area for tenant activities supported by outreach staff from Southwest Homes.

"Southwest Homes is pleased to have partnered with the province on this important initiative to help address the housing needs of vulnerable adults in Swift Current," Southwest Homes Executive Director Susie Eidem said. "With ongoing funding from the province, Southwest Homes will continue to deliver quality, sustainable services to people with intellectual disabilities and others in need in the Swift Current area."

The City of Swift Current is also supporting the project through a permanent land-tax exemption. Provincial funding was provided by the Saskatchewan Housing Corporation through its Rental Development Program.

In a separate initiative, the Ministry of Social Services is providing additional funding of nearly $481,000 in 2009-10 to Southwest Homes to serve the needs of eight more people with intellectual disabilities who are currently on the province's wait list for residential and other services. This initiative consists of one-time funding of $200,000 for the purchase and development of a new three-space group home for people with intellectual disabilities, as well as increased operational funding of more than $280,000 to enhance supported independent living and other services provided by Southwest Homes.

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For more information, contact:

Linda Saliken
Social Services
Regina
Phone: 306-787-0246