On June 23 Reena will be hosting the Opening Ceremony of its newest home. This space is custom designed for some of the more complex individuals with developmental disabilities supported by Reena. The Honourable Kathleen Wynne, Premier of Ontario and The Honourable Dr. Helena Jaczek, the Minister of Community and Social Services, and MPP for Oak Ridges-Markham, will be joining in the presentation.
Reena promotes dignity, individuality, independence, personal growth and community inclusion for people with developmental disabilities within a framework of Jewish culture and values. Reena was established in 1973 by parents of children with developmental disabilities as a practical alternative to institutions. Since that time Reena has grown to provide support for 1,000 individuals with developmental disabilities and their families
Reena has created an innovative solution, a home custom built for complex needs where individuals, families and staff can feel properly supported.
The home demonstrates the advantages of creating purpose-built housing for specialized needs, as opposed to purchasing and retrofitting existing structures. It is equipped with built-in furniture and inset lighting, as well as, specialized walls and windows to limit injuries. This solution will be a model for the Developmental Services Sector.
The Ministry of Community and Social Services will be providing ongoing annualized operational funding to support the individuals living in this home. The amount that the Ministry will be providing will be determined by the individual support needs of those who will be living in the home.
Bryan Keshen, President and CEO of Reena
“As we continue to build for the future we rely on donations for the construction of physical spaces. We are grateful to the Ministry of Community and Social Services for providing funding for ongoing operational needs. What we need now is an investment from our community for the development of the home.”
Honourable Kathleen Wynne, Premier of Ontario
“For almost fifty years, Reena has provided responsive, compassionate and innovative care for people living with developmental disabilities. Reena’s focus on dignity, respect, inclusion and the belief that no one should be left behind are values that we see reflected in the Ontario we are building together. This new home, equipped for specialized needs, will allow residents to live safely and independently.”
Dr. Helena Jaczek, Minister of Community and Social Services and MPP for Oak Ridges-Markham
“We know there is no one-size-fits-all housing solution for adults with developmental disabilities. It’s about exploring innovative housing options that can meet the unique needs of a wide range of individuals. Developmental service agencies like Reena play an invaluable role in providing critical services to people with developmental disabilities. Congratulations again to Reena on the opening of its newest home. ”
To be part of the solution contact Reena by email at info@reena.org or by phone at (905) 889.6484.
