Minister’s Seniors Award
Green Acres Foundation was recognized by the Province of Alberta with the Minister’s Seniors Service Award in the Nonprofit category. “Green Acres Foundation exemplifies community-based solutions for elder abuse by offering safe housing for seniors experiencing or at risk of mistreatment” – 2023 Minister’s Seniors Service Award. Green Acres Foundation board members, Cynthia Papworth and Roger Hohm, accepted the award on behalf of the Foundation at the award ceremony in Edmonton, Alberta on Friday, April 12, 2024.
Safe Suite Program
Green Acres Foundation is honoured to receive this recognition for our innovative program for senior citizens in our area. This “safe suite” program was created in partnership with the Lethbridge Elder Abuse Resource Network (LEARN). We provide safe accommodations and services within our lodge communities for seniors experiencing or at risk of experiencing some sort of abuse. This allows the much-needed time for the LEARN consultant to assist in getting the senior’s affairs in order. Since its inception in 2017, this program has helped over twenty individuals by providing safe, temporary, and emergent housing away from an abusive home situation. Along with being the first program of its kind in Alberta, the “safe suite” program has received commendation as the first in Canada. We are proud that the Government of Alberta is now endorsing our model throughout the province due to the positive outcomes and the cost effectiveness. Many of these clients have become permanent residents at our senior communities after their temporary stay. Safety is a top priority at Green Acres Foundation and in a 2023 survey, 98% of our residents said they felt safe in their facility.
Green Acres Foundation is more than a housing management body – we are a people first organization that’s focussed on community, leadership, involvement, and volunteerism. We partner with a variety of causes and local organizations to give back, get connected, and make a difference. Our “safe suite” program is an example of an effective partnership that makes a difference.
The Minister’s Senior Service Award is shared with all employees of the Foundation because without their dedication and great service, these clients wouldn’t feel safe and at home in our buildings. Once again proving why Green Acres Foundation is a great place to live!
About Green Acres Foundation
Green Acres Foundation is a non-profit housing management body established by the Province of Alberta. Since 1960, we have provided affordable homes and care services for senior citizens in Southern Alberta.
We believe quality of life matters at every age. That’s why we’re not just a “retirement home”; we’re creating senior living communities with a focus on independence, affordability, quality care and connection.
With over 22 locations across Southern Alberta, Green Acres Foundation is honoured to help enhance the quality of life for seniors in our area.
To learn more about our communities, click here.