ASL initiative to add support spaces in province

Alberta's seniors and persons with disabilities can expect 920 Affordable Supportive Living Initiative spaces in the form of $68.3 million grants from the provincial government.

The money will help support spaces being built in Calgary, Red Deer, Rocky Mountain House, Valleyview and Slave Lake, communities identified as having some of the highest needs in the province for supportive living spaces and services. The funds will contribute up to 50 per cent of the capital costs, with any remaining amount coming from the organizations.

"The ASLI program is an important option for our members in meeting the needs of Albertans in their local communities," said Irene Martin, executive director of the Alberta Senior Citizens' Housing Association. "To support Alberta's growing seniors population, we'll need to continue building more supportive living spaces. The ASLI program allows us to create housing options that honour seniors' individual needs and allow them to maintain a vibrant lifestyle in a community setting."

In a release the Alberta government said it received 38 applications for this year's grants. A review panel with members from Alberta Health, Infrastructure and Alberta Health Services evaluated the applications based on set criteria, including facility design and completion of a business case. Final selections were made by the Minister of Health based on the panel's recommendations. There will be 10 projects in total.

Tagged: Calgary Community | Senior Housing