The site of a long-shuttered school is being transformed into a “state-of-the-art” care facility designed and built to accommodate adults with complex needs.
“We’re very excited about this project,” said Sherri-Ann Bloom, who, along with her husband, Howard Bloom, are the driving force behind the ambitious $5.5-million development on Line 15 North in Forest Home. “This is a facility and a program that doesn’t exist anywhere else.”
The Blooms purchased the site more than three years ago. The project was temporarily stalled when a neighbour took the matter to the Ontario Municipal Board (OMB), contending the project did not conform to Oro-Medonte Township’s bylaws and due to concerns about the scope of the project and its impact on the neighbourhood.
The OMB, however, ruled in favour of the Blooms’ plan. Since then, work has been progressing on the property. The original plan was to save the former William B. Wright School building, but it had to be demolished; in its place, a new structure has been built. Adjacent to that building, the 20-unit residence is taking shape.
The project, on three wooded acres, is called Apple Blossom Village. According to its website, the facility will “provide safe and respectful individualized care through collaboration with individuals, their families and community resources.”
Apple Blossom Village is ideal for “people diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorders, cognitive and developmental issues, dual diagnosis and Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders” in addition to those with complex medical conditions and those with physical disabilities.
Each person at the facility will have a personal suite that includes a private bathroom and living area. There will also be communal spaces that includes a large dining area. One-to-one staff support will be provided. In addition, “residential, program and recreation areas are designed to offer individual, small group, and/or large group vocational, skills-based, therapeutic and recreational activities.”
Bloom said Orillia architect Rod Young designed the building, which is being built by Bertram Construction. It’s hoped the building will be ready for occupancy mid-summer.
“The project has been under development for three years,” said Sherri-Ann Bloom. “We’re excited to see the progress. We’ve been really gratified by the support of our neighbours and the township has been fantastic to work with.”
The Blooms are no strangers to such projects. Howard Bloom, a long-time professor in Georgian College’s child and youth care program, is a self-described social entrepreneur. He and his wife are business partners in two other similar projects.
Almost two decades ago, they started the Blooming Acres Farm, a ten-bed licensed residence situated on 100 acres of land in Oro Medonte that offers a variety of recreation, academic and leisure rooms for children with multiple and complex needs. In addition, they operate Blooming Acres Snow Valley Lodge, also for children with complex needs.
For more information on the Forest Home project, visit appleblossomvillage.ca
