The Government of Saskatchewan and Eden Care Communities Management Inc. officially opened three new group homes in Moose Jaw Thursday.

Taking part in the ribbon-cutting ceremony at the Brigham Road location were Eden Care CEO Alan Stephen and Director of Integrated Community Services Ryan Bahan, along with Moose Jaw Wakamow MLA Greg Lawrence, Moose Jaw North MLA Warren Michelson, Mayor Fraser Tolmie, and group home residents Rodney and Gerri.

The three houses will be home to 14 people with intellectual disabilities who have transferred from Valley View Centre. The government is providing operational funding of more than $1.5 million.

“Our government is committed to working with the residents of Valley View Centre, their families and communities to have successful transitions,” said Lawrence.

CEO Stephen said, “People living with an intellectual disability deserve and have the right to be actively engaged members of society with autonomy, security, identity, personal growth, joyful experiences, and a life full of meaning."

The Friendly City’s mayor said Moose Jaw is an “inclusive and caring community”, and that he and council take “great pleasure and great pride” in welcoming the new group homes to Moose Jaw. “It’s a great fit,” said Tolmie.

The two other Eden Care group homes opened on Warner Street and Elisia Drive.