WHITEHORSE—The Government of Yukon today announced the official opening of the Sixth Avenue Continuing Care Facility, formerly known as the Oblate Centre.
“The opening of this 10-bed facility will help reduce our wait list for continuing care beds in the territory,” Minister of Health and Social Services Mike Nixon said. “At any given time, we have 80 to 90 individuals waiting for facility care services, and while this facility will not accommodate everyone on the list, it will help alleviate some of the current and growing demand for long-term care beds.”
The Yukon government purchased the property from the Catholic Church in early 2015. The property was previously used as a retirement home for Oblate missionaries. The newly converted building houses 10 beds, bringing the total number of continuing care beds in Yukon to 193.
The facility is an interim measure until permanent beds are available in the new Whistle Bend continuing care facility. Upon opening of the Whistle Bend facility, the property can be used for other Health and Social Services housing needs.
“The customized renovation of the existing building gives the downtown space a new life and functionality,” Minister of Highways and Public Works Scott Kent said. “I am pleased the project is complete and the facility is ready to welcome those waiting for their new home.”
The Sixth Avenue facility will provide intermediate level care to Yukoners, while emphasizing resident autonomy and individualized care. The design of the building provides a home-like environment. The small number of staff and residents, as well as the model of care, allow flexible options in providing support for residents while maintaining the high quality that continuing care is known for providing. Residents will be moving in to the facility next week.
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Contact:
Dan Macdonald
Cabinet Communications
867-393-6470
dan.macdonald@gov.yk.ca
Michelle Boleen
Communications, Health and Social Services
867-456-6145
michelle.boleen@gov.yk.ca
