Above: Shawna-Leigh Morgan is a member of our new Supported Independent Living program. We are thrilled to grow with this program, but there is so much more work to be done to build a more inclusive world for adults with intellectual disabilities like Shawna-Leigh. Learn more by watching the video on our homepage.
At L’Arche, we envision a world where everyone belongs.
As we look forward to gathering with loved ones for the holidays, I can’t help but think of the many adults with intellectual disabilities who lack a community of support encircling them.
“For most people with disabilities, unless you live with family, there’s not a whole lot of choice,” says Shawna-Leigh Morgan, a member of our community.
“They unfortunately wind up pigeon-holed into care homes that may not necessarily meet their needs,” she continues.
This has been true for Shawna-Leigh. But everything will change for her early next year when she moves into an apartment of her own as part of our new Supported Independent Living program.
With our partners on the program, we will support four adults with intellectual disabilities to live at the new Wellington building uptown Saint John. These are individuals have long dreamed of living in an apartment of their own but lacked the support to do so.
"I am extremely excited about the program,” says Shawna-Leigh. “Instead of being told, ‘this is what you’re getting,’ we’re being asked, ‘what do you need?’”
While we are thrilled to grow with this program, there is so much more work to be done to build a more inclusive world for people like Shawna-Leigh.
In this season of giving, will you help us create a world where everyone belongs?
Donate today by credit card online or call us at (506) 672-6504.
You can more more of Shawna's story and our new Supported Independent Living program by watching the video on our homepage.
On behalf of L'Arche Saint John, I wish you and your loved ones a safe and happy holiday season!
With deep gratitude,
Zoël Breau
Executive Director/Community Leader