REDI executive director Craig Wood addresses the crowd at Monday's groundbreaking ceremony for the Hampson House. Construction vehicles are visible on the lot in question behind him.--News Photo Anna Smith
asmith@medicinehatnews.com
REDI Enterprises has broken ground on its upcoming Hampson House, which will offer assisted and independent living opportunities for those with mobility issues.
A collaborative effort between Brost Developments, Lacey Homes and REDI, it is the hope the new facility will not only allow for residents to live in affordable home that allows access to support when they need it, but also serve as a template for the future.
The home will allow for six individuals with disabilities to live there, offering a continuum of support levels tailored to their needs. There will be space for three individuals with 24/7 staff support, and three individuals who will be able to live independently, knowing staff support is right next door if needed.
The building will be named after Cathy Hampson, who faced numerous health challenges and challenges regarding her own autonomy after being surrendered by her parents to Michener Centre in Red Deer, which was very institutional at the time.
“It was an institution, and what that meant is that you didn’t have any space. Your clothing was in a bin at the end of the hallway, and every morning, your staff workers would go pick an outfit from it to get you dressed, but you had no particular clothing or shoes or anything of your own,” said Craig Wood, executive director at REDI.
He recalled a story mentioning that her only possession was a red shoelace, which her care staff had been unable to get away from her.
Hampson would move to Medicine Hat in 1993, forming relationships with REDI staff and being supported by the organization until her passing. Her family donated the proceeds of her estate to REDI, making this project possible and paving the way to support for people like her.
“I think only fitting that the model going forward will be one of people being able to live in their own space with as much independence as possible, with support, love and care. And I think something we should be proud of,” said Wood. “I think it’s something that, as he had said, we’re hoping it’ll be a bit of a template to go forward and put in other areas of the city.”
