L’Arche Saint John has launched a new independent living pilot project for adults with intellectual disabilities.
Four adults will each have their own apartment in “The Wellington” building currently under construction uptown.
Zoël Breau, the executive director of L’Arche Saint John, described it as a milestone for their organization.
“We know a lot of people who are adults with an intellectual disability who dream of having their own apartment,” Breau said in an interview. “To be able to help with that is amazing.”
The move is part of a two-and-a-half-year pilot with Saint John Non Profit Housing (SJNBPH) and Inclusion NB. It will be paid for by $130,000 in funding from the Department of Social Development.
Breau said L’Arche approached Narinder Singh, the general manager of SJNPH, about the project, and he was keen to get on board.
“His reason why he wanted to move forward is that we’re coming with the support they need to try to make sure that it’s a success story for them,” he said.
L’Arche will provide services and support to the individuals chosen to take part in the pilot. They are currently working with Inclusion NB to evaluate candidates for the program.
In a news release, Singh said people with intellectual disabilities deserve a safe and affordable place to call home, and they are excited to partner in this program.
“We’re confident the success of this program will encourage other developers to incorporate similar units in their housing plans,” said Singh.
Meanwhile, Breau said the pilot project is just a first step and they hope to expand the program even further in the months and years ahead.
“We are developing an outreach program where our goal is to connect with at least 20 to 25 other adults that live with their family who maybe have that same dream,” he said.
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