A grand opening was held today (Fri) for the newly renovated Deer Park Villa day program building in Ituna.

The Saskatchewan Government provided $338-thousand in capital funding to renovate the building which supports 20 people with intellectual disabilities.

Ituna Mayor Rene Dubruiel noted the building is an important one for the community. He says Deer Park Villa is the second largest employer in the Town of Ituna – between 32 and 34 full and part-time jobs plus 2 management staff.

Dubreuil says the newly renovated building allows them to do current programs in a bigger space.

“They have a place to go, we have movies for them here, they can eat here, it’s a real gathering place for them” Bubreuil said of the clients who visit the building.

In addition to this building, Deer Park Villa currently operates 3 group homes, a four-suite apartment complex, and a supported independent living program.

“The capital investment into this day program means individuals will be provided the supports they need now and into the future,” Melville-Saltcoats MLA Warren Kaeding said in a media release. “I want to thank Deer Park Villa for the work they do in supporting people with intellectual disabilities in our community.”

“This was a huge project and accomplishment for us. We are grateful for such a remarkable space that allows us to provide enriched supports to the individuals we serve. Our renovated facility has the potential for new programming initiatives that will enhance each participant’s quality of life, which is the main goal and mission of our organization,” Executive Directors of Deer Park Villa, Ruth Elaschuk and Amanda Beltrand said.

Deer Park Villa began in 1989 when they opened their first group home and incorporated as a not-for-profit organization.