Kinsmen Manor Transition
For over five decades, Kinsmen Manor has provided a home for adults living with intellectual disabilities. Designed and opened in 1969, the Manor aligned with the best practices of its time, but today, its failing infrastructure and design no longer meet the needs of the individuals we serve.
To honour our founders and our years of growth, we are embracing new ways to meet the needs of those we support. The Manor Transition Initiative will focus on the closing of Kinsmen Manor as a residence for individuals living with intellectual disabilities and will focus on the development of several Community Homes in Saskatoon. These homes will provide person-centred supports for residents in smaller, individualized, and accessible houses. 24/7 support will continue to be provided by a team of Disability Support Professionals. Health and Wellness Supports in addition to Recreation and Community Inclusion Supports will transition to a community-based model to meet the needs of all Elmwood residents.
A Resident-First Approach is being used in the planning and development of supports and services. This person-centred approach emphasizes the importance of relationships and continuity of care and puts the unique needs and desires of each resident front and centre. This initiative is a proud partnership between Elmwood and the Ministry of Social Services – Community Living Service Delivery.
Transition Timeline
House 1
Elmwood recieved possession in Novemeber of 2023 with residents moving and the house becoming fully operational in January of 2024.
House 2 & 3
Elmwood recieved possession of Houses 2 & 3 in January of 2024, with residents moving and the houses becoming fully operational in February and April of 2024, respectively.
House 4
Elmwood recieved possession of House 4 in August of 2024, with residents moving and the house becoming fully operational in September of 2024.
House 5 & 6
Funding was approved for Houses 5 & 6 in March of 2024, as part of the 2024 Provinicial Budget. We are now in the process of securing properties for the last two homes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Elmwood is evolving our supports and services to meet the needs of current residents and prepare for the residents of tomorrow. The Community Home Model enables Elmwood to provide person-centred supports and improve the outcomes for individuals living with intellectual disabilities.
It’s already started!
- House #1 – Construction officially completed in the Fall of 2023, with Elmwood receiving possession in early November. Residents moved to their new home in January of 2024.
- House #2 & #3 – Construction was completed in Winter of 2023 with Elmwood taking possession in January of 2024. Residents moved to their new homes in February and April of 2024, respectively.
- House #4 – Construction was completed in early Summer of 2024 with Elmwood taking possession in August. Residents moved to their new home in September of 2024.
- House #5 & #6 – Funding for House #5 & #6 was approved as part of the 2024 Provincial Budget. Elmwood is now in the process of securing properties to build the homes on.
Yes. Elmwood Residences strongly believes a Resident First Approach will better serve resident needs. 24/7 support will continue to be provided by a team of Disability Support Professionals.
This is a unique opportunity to develop, diversify and enhance our supports and services to meet the needs of the residents.
Yes. Elmwood Residences Inc. and the Ministry of Social Services are committed to transitioning the health supports from Kinsmen Manor to a community-based model. This care will be provided by Elmwood’s Health Connectors as integral members of Elmwood’s Health and Wellness Team.
Yes. Residents will indeed have access to recreational programming. Elmwood is committed to maintaining its recreational programming and the Community Inclusion Day Program for residents. These programs serve as the heartbeat of our organization, significantly contributing to the enhanced quality of life for all Elmwood residents.
Elmwood is committed to supporting individuals to age in place. The increased accessibility of the new homes, coupled with the model of service delivery currently being developed will accommodate individuals to age in place for as long as possible.
In tandem with initiating the Manor Transition Initiative, the Board of Directors established the Future of Arlington Advisory Committee. The committee’s primary goal is to craft a vision and plan for the establishment of a Disability Service Sector Community Hub – an intentional and inclusive community for all. Key principles guiding this initiative include:
- Commitment to development of a Community Hub
- Preservation of the land site at 2012 Arlington Ave
- Maintain Elmwood’s Administration Team within the Hub
As part of our 2023/2024 Annual Report, Elmwood shared a glimpse into the future of our Arlington space and the vision for the Elmwood Community Hub. We are in the process of applying for several grants and have completed a Philanthropic Feasibility Study as part of the planning process for this initiative.
Elmwood has implemented a Workplace Adjustment Plan designed to facilitate the transition of Kinsmen Manor Team Members to the new homes. This strategic plan ensures a smooth transition of staff, providing the best support for the residents.
We are pleased to announce that, as part of the Manor Transition, several Kinsmen Manor Team Members have opted to move to the new Community Homes. This is important as it ensures continuity of care for our residents.
Elmwood is actively working to allocate a designated vehicle for each Transition Home, aiming to enhance safety, responsiveness during medical emergencies and accessibility to community activities such as Day Programs, employment, recreational outings, and community events. Despite the importance of these vehicles, government funding does not cover the capital costs for their purchase. Therefore, our Fund Development team is actively fundraising to realize this goal. As of now, we can confirm that the first 3 homes already have designated vehicles, two have arrived and one is on order.
Residents have shown much resilience in the transitions to their new homes and have settled in well. Now they are putting their personal touches on their homes and making it their own.
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