Subsidy for house approved

Press, 22 May 1978, Page 6

Subsidy for house approved

Parliamentary reporter A plan to renovate Independence House, Christchurch, for the Adult Cerebral Palsy Society has been approved in principle for subsidy purposes by the Minister of Social Welfare (Mr Walker). independence House is used by the society mainly as a “stepping stone” to community life for former natients o Templeton Hospital. and also nartlv to provide parent relief. The building was give to the society and has since Men extended to cater fo- 11 residents.

Now. after the purchase of an adjoining property, the society plans to provide additional accommodation of eight beds, and recreation facilities consisting of a recreation room and a swim-

ming pool. The additional accommodation will be in two self-contained flats, each with four single bedrooms. The accommodation will be arranged to give handicapped persons experience and confidence in independent living. About $125,000 of the $lBO,OOO project is able to be subsidised, and the Government contribution will therefore be more than $83,000. “The activities of this society are respected and supported by the community.” said Mr Walker.

“The improvement of Indendence House, and particularly the.addition of the flats, will enable the society to expand its very successful rehabilitation work,” he said.