Our Newest Project.....
The Rotary Club of
Ottawa undertook an initiative over 25 years ago when it commenced the
planning of a respite facility for children with severe physical
disabilities who remain under the care of their families. That planning
culminated with the opening in June l982 of the Rotary Home in the
Lebreton Flats area. Originally with room for 8 residents and recently
expanded to 12 beds, this facility has since provided relief up to 3
weeks annually for the care-givers, but its intake is limited to young
people not older than 21 years of age. The Rotary Home has long operated
at 98.5% capacity.
A large number of
persons who previously utilized the existing facility can no longer,
because of their age, be admitted to the Rotary Home. The need for adult
respite facilities is compounded by medical advances which is increasing
the life-span of many who are severely physically disabled. There are
now some 7,000 physically disabled adults living with their families in
the national capital region. The only respite facilities available to
these persons in the entire region are chronic care facilities and other
institutional settings which most physically disabled persons prefer to
avoid.
The Rotary Club of
Ottawa is committed, despite the current era of government cut-backs, to
building a new respite home which will include respite programs for
adults with physical disabilities
The
New Home will offer services to both children and young adults in
separate wings to ensure each population has their own space. Each wing
will be decorated and appointed appropriately for their needs and their
age. There will be ample space with single and double accommodation, a
large living space, kitchen, therapeutic tub and shower rooms, a
snozelen room and ample outdoor areas for enjoying fresh air and
sunshine.
For further
information about the services offered by The Ottawa Rotary Home
contact Lauri Cox at (613) 236-3200 or
info@rotaryhome.on.ca
To learn more or
make a contribution to The Ottawa Rotary Home “New Home Fund”
contact Carolyn Pichē at 613-837-7376 or
orhfoundation@on.aibn.com or
visit
www.orhfoundation.ca
Here are some photos of some the kids and their
activities (Click on any photo to see it full size)
