Nova Scotians with disabilities will have enhanced programing and more community living opportunities through L’Arche Homefires.

Government is giving $200,000 to the Wolfville group’s Building Our Dreams fundraising campaign. L’Arche creates community living and day programs for persons with disabilities.

“I’m so pleased that this campaign will allow space to be redesigned into additional community living options for people with disabilities,” said Kings South MLA Keith Irving, on behalf of Community Services Minister Joanne Bernard, today, Oct. 16. “This is in keeping with government’s commitment to transform services for persons with disabilities to provide greater choice and inclusion.”

The province’s donation will help the fundraising campaign attract more funds.

L’Arche will renovate the recently purchased St. John’s Anglican Parish Hall to bring three adult day programs — Applewicks, Discovery and Cornerstone — under one roof. This will allow more people with disabilities, including those with mobility challenges, to participate in day programs together. The renovation will also include administrative offices, which will open two other properties for community-based living.

“This will provide a place of belonging for everyone in the heart of the community,” said L’Arche executive director Ingrid Blais. “I’m delighted that this donation helps our fundraising achieve a milestone. Raising awareness and having the commitment of so many community partners is equally valuable.”

L’Arche Homefires helps 21 people with disabilities take part in community living in five homes and two apartments. Twenty-six people from across the province participate in day programs.

Source: Release