DANFORTH — On June 16, the Danforth Habilitation Residential Center (DHRC) welcomed guests from as far away as St. Francis and Millinocket to the grand opening of its new replacement facility.
Contributed photo
OPEN HOUSE — Visitors to the Danforth Habilitation Residential Center Open House enjoy a delicious snack prepared by staff and clients of the facility.
DHRC is a nursing facility for individuals diagnosed with intellectual disabilities. The new facility was built on the same lot as the old facility at 7 Maple St. in Danforth. Residents of DHRC – many of whom have lived at this location for over 25 years—didn’t have far to move. The old building was torn down just a week prior to the open house.
The new building has far more space and includes a whirlpool room, walk-in-shower room, therapy room and activity room, explained Lynette Young, executive director. “One of the favorite new rooms for residents seems to be the new sitting room. Residents have a private place to visit with their families, chat on the phone, play on the computer or just relax in a quiet area.”
The downstairs of the facility, which is accessible by elevator, houses the central office of the full Danforth Habilitation Association (DHA). The greater DHA agency also operates two assisted living facilities, a community supports program and a work supports program. Clients also have a special downstairs room for storage of seasonal clothing and other personal items.
Guests of the open house were sent on a scavenger hunt to locate all the rooms and were rewarded with a package of microwave popcorn touting the words “Thanks for popping in!” They were then invited to sit down with the residents to enjoy sandwiches, salads and desserts provided by clients and staff.
DHRC is accepting applications for new residents. Currently, two private bedrooms are available. For more information, contact Lynette Young, executive director, at 448-2327 ext. 107 or via e-mail at lyoung@pwless.net.
