Construction begins on home for adults with intellectual disabilities

Construction began Wednesday on a new building that previously had existed only in dreams and drawings.

The 10-unit condominium building in Harbour Landing built by the non-profit group Input Housing Corp., will be the new home for young adults living with an intellectual disability.

The three-storey building will have private condo units on the second and third floors. The first floor will have shared spaces, including a 12-person kitchen, dining area, social room and activity area.

The goal is to provide a mix of private and shared space to foster independence while allowing the residents to feel like they’re part of a family.

Nick Popowich, 29, is one of the future residents who helped kick off the construction with a sod-turning event. His mother, Elizabeth Popowich, said most of the residents holding shovels next to Nick have been friends for years.

“They can come together as family with the idea that one day (the parents) will be gone and that they will be family to each other,” said Elizabeth.

As the children got older and finished school, Elizabeth said housing became a big concern. Through Input Housing Corp., the families have managed to find a model that works, giving residents the independence to look after their own small unit while also being close to friends without having to travel far.

Elizabeth said her son is bursting with excitement and is more than ready to move in when the building is complete next spring.

“It’s going to be a little bit of a process to get used to not having him in our house every day, but at the same time it’s a dream come true,” said Elizabeth.

Nick has even bigger dreams he wishes to fulfil after moving in.

“The first thing I’m going to do when I walk through the door is probably grab a ring and propose to my girlfriend,” said Nick.

Rose Ann Reitmeier had always hoped her daughter Stephanie, 30, would one day be able to live on her own.

“She wants to live on her own. She wants to live with her friends, to do the things that she wants to do,” said Rose Ann. “She’s in a really good neighbourhood where she’ll be able to walk. She’ll be able to bike her ride. She’ll be able to get her own groceries. She’ll be able to do things on her own.”

After being on waiting lists and searching for the right home for 10 years, Reitmeier said there is a definite need for more private homes like this.

For Stephanie, that dream will soon become reality.

“Just because you have special needs doesn’t mean you can’t live independently,” Rose Ann said.