Collaborating with Community: Quality Homes
Our very own Lutheran Disability Services (LDS) is doing some great work to provide quality homes and in-home support for people living with disabilities across South Australia.
Recently, an ideal project has come to fruition through the dedication of the congregation at St John’s Lutheran Church in Tea Tree Gully. They have completed a new set of Specialised Disability Accommodation (SDA) homes as part of their mission to support the disabled community.
Utilising old church land, which once housed an old building and car parks, this space has been transformed into a vibrant new home for people living with disability. Through this partnership with LDS, the residents can now not only receive the quality care and support they deserve, but they are also empowered to develop life skills, forge meaningful friendships, and truly be a part of their community.
These three beautiful homes, nestled in a leafy area, provide a home for up to six NDIS participants, offering them the opportunity to live in a serene environment while connecting with the local church congregation. It’s been heartening to see how this project has brought new life to the area and deepened the sense of community.
Throughout this development, LDS clients and their families have been involved every step of the way. One such family, the Paechs, who are deeply connected to St John’s Lutheran Church, are especially excited for their son Nathan, who will be living so close to the church. Nathan and other residents will have the chance to build bonds not only with LDS but with their local congregation as well, creating a truly integrated support network.
Michael Kromwyk, CEO of Lutheran Disability Services, expressed gratitude for the generosity of the St John’s congregation, emphasizing how their mission-driven approach to providing housing for people with disabilities, especially during a housing crisis, showcases true commitment to the cause. He noted that with the support of LLL, they look forward to creating even more quality homes for their clients in partnership with congregations and care organisations across the region.
The homes were officially dedicated by St John’s in September, with NDIS participants moving in throughout the month. This collaboration between LDS, the St John’s congregation, and the community is a shining example of how we can come together to make a real difference, providing safe, secure, and happy homes for vulnerable people.
Through the Shared Resource Model, LDS has also been able to connect with other congregations to explore similar opportunities and is currently working with the Lobethal congregation on future projects.
If your congregation or care organisation is interested in exploring opportunities to support people who require specialised disability accommodation and contribute to this mission, please contact Michael Kromwyk of Lutheran Disability Services for more information.
Michael Kromwyk
Ph: 08 8212 7766
Web: www.ldssa.org.au
