News Releases

June 3, 2009

Excel Supports Homeless Population with Lauderdale House

Edmonton: The Excel Society is proud to bring into service Lauderdale House, a Special Care Home in Edmonton.  This six bedroom facility is designed to serve an “at risk”, homeless population, with the support of Alberta Health Services.  This new, two-storey home, is completely barrier free and will serve both walking and wheelchair clients.  The home has a wheelchair accessible lift to ensure all clients can move freely throughout.

“Excel is pleased to have received $ 200,000 towards construction from Homeward Trust Edmonton!” comments Brad Perkins, Excel Society Board Chair.  “In addition, Alberta Health Services, Supportive Living, is providing operating funds. This is definitely the kind of support that the “Not for Profit” sector like Excel Society needs to continue developing supportive housing for our community!”

“Our government is supporting many Canadians with housing needs, and is fulfilling its commitment to help those seeking to break free of the cycle of homelessness and poverty,” said  “The Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development.  “Through these types of investments, the Homeward Trust will continue to be able to help individuals and families in need.”

"I'm very pleased the City of Edmonton's annual $1.2 million funding to Homeward Trust is helping our most vulnerable citizens with barrier free housing at Lauderdale House," says Council's Affordable Housing and Homelessness Initiatives lead Karen Leibovici. "Council supports a wide range of housing options to enable a diverse and vibrant city."      

"Homeward Trust is pleased to work with The Excel Society to build a supported, barrier-free home for six of the most vulnerable or at risk members of our community. Over the past 9 years Homeward Trust has contributed to the creation of 2,000 homes and supportive programs for homeless people and those at risk of becoming homeless. This project is one step closer to ensuring that we end homelessness in Edmonton for good,” says Jon Hall, Chair Homeward Trust. 

“The Excel Society has been a long time partner with Alberta Health Services in providing support for clients with disabilities, particularly in the area of mental health.  We value their ongoing commitment.” Caroline Clark, Executive Director, Seniors Health, Alberta Health Services.

The Excel Society supports people with medical, mental and physical health issues by providing choices in accommodation, life-skills, recreation and vocational supports.  Community inclusion has been a major focus for the Excel Society since it began in 1964.

For more information contact:

Charles Vermeeren, Excel Society    T 780 455 2601 Ext 243