Sandy’s Weblog

In 1996, local faith communities and seniors’ organizations in Alberton in western Prince Edward Island, were concerned about the lack of affordable housing for lower-income seniors. In western P.E.I., there was one seniors’ residence bed for every 26 seniors, compared to one bed for every 17 seniors in the rest of the province.

The Alberton faith communities, health authorities and government agencies formed Enriched Residential Care Concepts, a non-profit corporation and registered charity. After consulting seniors groups, Enriched built a facility that meets the housing needs of seniors and people with special needs. The Rev. W.J. Phillips Residence is the only facility that offers supportive housing for seniors in the region and the only not-for profit facility in P.E.I. to offer such a range of services.

The Affordable Housing Solution

The Rev. W.J. Phillips Residence opened in 1998 and offers a range of housing choices and a full menu of on-site support services to its residents. The residence has 14, one-bedroom, assisted independent living apartments and 14 licensed community-care beds. The assisted independent living apartments encourage independence for seniors and people with special needs who receive support with daily activities when necessary. Each apartment has its own kitchen and bathroom and is wheelchair accessible. Assistance with housekeeping and laundry is provided as required. The licensed community-care beds are for people who need continuing care.

Residents receive assistance with personal care and their health- including medication administration–in accordance with P.E.I. Community Care Act guidelines. Nutritious meals are available to all residents. To foster a sense of community, the residence has several common spaces, including lounges and a chapel, and an activity program. There is 24-hour staffing to respond to emergencies. The Rev. W.J. Phillips residence, on a quiet, residential street, is close to amenities and services– including doctors’ offices, a hospital and a pharmacy.

Enriched Residential Care Concepts received an interest-free CMHC Proposal Development Funding (PDF) loan to cover planning costs. The total cost of the project was $950,000. Land was donated by the local Anglican Church. The Town of Alberton forgave taxes on the property for five years and the province provided tax relief. The federal government contributed $250,000 through the Transition Job Fund, a job creation fund for areas of high unemployment. The fund paid for eight local people to work on construction of the building for 18 weeks. The province also provided funding for short-term jobs during construction. This CMHC report was reviewed by Sandy Hutchens.