Village Shalom Apartments Hosts Grand Opening

April 10, 2006     

Village Shalom Apartments, a member of the Wexner Heritage Village family of services, opened recently providing ten private apartments for adults with developmental disabilities. A dedication and grand opening celebration was held April 5 to share the project with the community.

Rabbi Barnett Brickner, director of spiritual life, blessed the new building and affixed a mezuzah. John Crawford, a father of one of the tenants, spoke about how far his daughter, Julie Lopper, had come from being one of the first residents of Shalom House, a group home for adults with developmental disabilities, to being able to have her own apartment now at Village Shalom Apartments.

“She has come along way and it has all been made possible by the wonderful, caring staff of Shalom House,” said Crawford.

Village Shalom Apartments opened with full occupancy in January. For some residents, it was the first time they had the opportunity to live by themselves and have a place to call their own. Each Village Shalom Apartment is designated for one individual per unit and is equal opportunity housing.

Those who live in Village Shalom Apartments rent their units with the help of subsidization through the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Shalom House, Inc. provides the tenants with assistance through its Supported Living Program. This program empowers individuals with mental retardation/developmental disabilities to live on their own through the efforts of staff who give in-home assistance as well as outreach services to assist tenants with running errands, enjoying leisure activities and attending medical appointments.

Denise George, support services coordinator, stated, “I look forward to leading the Village Shalom team in addressing the needs of our new tenants with this innovative model of service.”