Government is moving ahead on its commitment to develop eight community-based homes for Nova Scotians with disabilities over two years.
In July, vendors interested in developing and operating new homes can participate in information sessions in regions where five homes will be located – Halifax Regional Municipality (two homes) and Yarmouth, Kings and Lunenburg counties.
Then in August, Community Services will issue a call for vendors to apply to develop and operate homes. Work is already underway on the development of homes in New Glasgow, Isle Madame and Clare.
“We know that smaller, community-based homes are often the best living option for Nova Scotians with disabilities,” said Community Services Minister Kelly Regan. “Moving toward community-based homes instead of larger facilities will allow residents and their families to be more involved and included as part of their communities.”
The homes will each house up to four Nova Scotians with disabilities. The application process will focus on finding the highest quality of service and support for participants of the Disability Support Program and their families. The locations and criteria for building the homes are based on needs of participants. The specific support needs for each home will vary depending on the needs of the participants.
The development of more community-based homes for persons with disabilities is part of government’s commitment to an accessible province by 2030. Government increased its investment for the eight homes with an additional $1 million in Budget 2018-2019, bringing the total to $5.2 million over two years. There are currently 223 community-based, small option homes in Nova Scotia.