Initiatives

For many years the property at Cheshire Homes of Saskatoon contained three operating group homes, as well as the space for one more home.   In the fall of 2006, the Board of Directors established a committee to investigate the possibility of a new housing option in Saskatoon for young adults with physical disabilities. The intent was to fill a niche for individuals who require attendant care services but want more independence and living space than would be available in a nursing home or group home setting.

Preliminary plans were drawn up for a new building that would include eight accessible apartment style units. Expressions of interest were sought from people in the community interested in living in this type of environment and discussions were undertaken with possible funding partners. Eventually an agreement was reached with Community Living Service Delivery to fund the operating costs of the new venture as well as a small portion of the capital cost. The bulk of the capital funding was to be raised through the sales of life leases to the residents who would be occupying the new suites. Financial commitments were obtained from eight individuals to purchase the life leases and the Board gave the formal approval for the project. In October of 2009 ground was broken, and after an eventful and difficult 16 months the grand opening ceremony finally took place on February 22, 2011 welcoming eight new residents.

Each of the eight brand-new units has its own bedroom, bathroom, living/office space, and a small kitchen area. There is a central laundry, kitchen and dining area.  Attendant care staff, provided by Cheshire, are on site and available 24 hours through a pager call system.  The original plans were revised to include a basement which holds a large storage area, a recreational room for meetings and larger gatherings, as well as four more bachelor suites which will be rented out to members of the general public who will serve as attendant care staff.

All of the life lease units are currently occupied. However, if you are interested in viewing the building or having your name placed on the waiting list, please contact the Cheshire office at 374–6191.