logo Father J. Angus MacDonald Centre
36 High St., Moncton
NB, EIC 9C3
Tel:(506) 857-4086

Welcome


The Father J. Angus MacDonald Centre is an Independent Living "Transitional" Centre which offers young adults with physical disabilities the opportunity to experience "community living" in a "learning" environment that is safe and supportive. The program is individualized, goal-oriented and time-limited.

MISSION

THE FATHER J. ANGUS MACDONALD CENTRE is a TRANSITIONAL LIVING CENTRE serving primarily the residents of the province of New Brunswick. The Centre's mission is to provide, to adults with physical disabilities, the opportunity to plan and prepare for mainstream life, by rebuilding their instrumental and interpersonal survival skills. The Centre is the intermediate step which provides a bridge between INSTITUTIONAL and INDEPENDENT community living. The Centre encourages self-sufficiency in a supportive environment and provides participants access to learning the Living and Life Skills necessary for an INDEPENDENT LIFE IN THE COMMUNITY of their choice.

OBJECTIVES

SINCE 1983, many young adults with physical disabilities, from New Brunswick and other provinces, have come to THE FATHER J. ANGUS MACDONALD CENTRE to find the opportunities, the training, the tools and the support they needed to take control of and responsibility for their own life. The majority completed the program and are now living on their own, directing their support services and enjoying full partnership in their community.

INDEPENDENCE in the community means having control, making decision, having choices and assuming responsibility for those choices. INDEPENDENCE is also defined as "managing one's own affairs and participating actively in the day-to-day life in the community. There are different risks in living in the community as opposed to an institution. A TRANSITIONAL LIVING PROGRAM such as offered at the Centre, allows participants to minimize these risks by providing an opportunity to learn Living and Life Skills by practical experience in a supportive environment.

THE PROCESS of becoming independent is sometimes hindered by the difficulty participants have in developing overall plans from the many piece meal resources that are offered for making changes in their lives. The Centre's Team assist participants to develop long-range goals and break them down into organized sequential steps. The participants also learn to identify the resources they have and how to use them in an organized manner.

COOPERATIVE WORK between the participant and the Team is an important means by which the activities of the program are translated into personal terms that apply to each individual's unique circumstances, capabilities, desires and values.

MODULES

DEFINITION: An organized and consistent means by which program staff offer:
  1. information on the various components of "THE TRANSITIONAL LIVING PROGRAM"
  2. practical experience in using skills needed for Independent Living
  3. new competency, alternative choices
  4. more options
  5. role models
THE PURPOSE of the modules is to provide more opportunities for participants to achieve "real" independence as defined by:
  1. managing one's own affairs
  2. participating actively in the community on a day-to-day basis
  3. self-directing needed support services

Modules are developed under the 10 Program Components and could be increased or modified as the need arises.

Here are a few of the frequently asked questions about the Father MacDonald Centre:

Q: Who goes to the Centre?
A: Adults with physical disabilities who have the "potential" and the "desire" to "learn" to take "control" and "responsibility" for their lives.

Q: Is there an age limit?
A: You must be at least 19 years of age to participate in the program. The average age of participant is 29.

Q: What services does the Centre offer?
A: Home Economics, Social Services, Occupational Therapy, Attendant Services, Counselling, Individual Services Plans, and Teaching Modules are a few of the services offered at the Centre.

Q: What are the living arrangements?
A: Each participant occupies a model apartment with a kitchen, living room, bedroom and bathroom. Apartments are single occupancy.

Q: Do I have to stay for the whole three (3) years?
A: No. The program can be completed in 36 months or less, but participants can move out anytime they choose within that period.

Q: Is the Centre denominational?
A: No. The Centre welcomes people of all religions, faiths, and creeds.

Q: How much does it cost?
A: The program is subsidized for N.B. residents. Participants pay a minimal monthly program fee.

A Day in the Life

The following are a few examples of how our programs, services, and facilities help set individuals with disabilities on the path to independent living.

Tell Me
Enjoying any new venture could pose a lot of questions. Our communication lines are always open with helpful advice.

Looking Good 'N Feeling Great
First impressions leave lasting impressions in the "real world". The Centre's basic Self Care and Health Maintenance Programs are designed to make you look and feel your best.

A Helping Hand
You are in charge! From directing and scheduling your attendant care services to making decisions for yourself, you will learn to be in control environment.

Setting Goals
After the first week at the Cent re, an Individual Service Plan (ISP) is developed jointly by the professionals and yourself to determine your program. It is reviewed on a regular basis.

Let's Cook
For some individuals with physical disabilities making coffee can be an incredible challenge. Our Home Management Component is designed to help you accomplish meal preparation, shopping, housekeeping, laundry, and other every day activities as independently as possible.

Out 'N About
Independent Living starts at the Centre. You are encouraged to participate in community activities such as shopping, visiting a friend or seeing a movie.

Me and My Money
Financial Management is an integral part of independent living. We'll show you how budgeting, purchasing, and other monetary activities can be easily accomplished.

Fun 'N Play
It's not all work at the Centre. There's plenty of time to enjoy the recreational activities in the community and good times with newfound friends.

Getting Your Own Place
After three years at the Centre, you'll be ready to go home. Not just any home, but your very own place. Before that day arrives, we will work together in helping you establish yourself in the community of your choice. And after you venture out, we will always be here if you need someone to talk to.

Remember...You've got a friend!

For more information contact:

Social Worker: (506) 857-4086 ext. 23
or
Director: (506) 857-4086 ext. 22

Father J. Angus MacDonald Centre
36 High St., Moncton, NB, E1C 9C3
Tel: 506-857-4086 Fax: 506-855-8045


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Supported by
Kings Regional Rehabilitation Centre
Technical Resource Centre