Survey results underscore desire for supportive housing in Morris region

Results are in from an assisted living survey sent out earlier this year by Red River Supportive Housing - Logement Supervisé de la Rivière Rouge Inc.

The group consists of councils for the R.M. of Montcalm, R.M. of Morris, and the Town of Morris with the goal of moving ahead with an assisted living facility in the region. The goal is to enhance housing, social, economic, and community services in the three municipalities and surrounding areas.
    
Chairperson Chris Hamblin says about 300 people responded to the questionaire which was sent out in the mail and was available at the municipal offices and online. 

"We were trying to reach as many people as possible because we know that this is something that's needed in the community and it affects many, many people in various ways" she explained. "Obviously, the people that are getting close to the time when they may want to move into a facility, we wanted to catch them. But we also wanted to catch children, grandchildren and friends of people that might be in that market in the not-too-distant future."

After reviewing the results, Hamblin feels there weren't many surprises. 

"We were encouraged by the high level of numbers (of people) that really are interested in seeing this come to fruition," she said, noting about 250 of the responses contained really valuable feedback. 

"Obviously, there are a few that are ready today, but there's a lot that are looking at it for the next five, ten years down the road," added Hamblin. "A lot of people responded that they wanted that available, didn't know if they would use it and obviously, that depends on how they age. And so, good affirmation. Good response in terms of numbers. We know the need is there. We know that is was there probably a while ago. The sooner that we can get something going, the better for most people."

Members of the group recently met to discuss the survey results, and Hamblin says they decided they now have enough information and support to make this a reality. As for what that looks like, she says researching a location for the facility is high on the to-do list, followed by a design plan that is appropriate for that spot and will help confirm the project's cost. All the while, community consultations will be ongoing. A fund raising campaign is also in the wings.