A New Program in Prince George – Juniper House
Offering safe, secure housing and wraparound supports to 14 adults with dementia or acquired brain injuries
Sep 10 2024 | Connective
Connective is proud to announce the launch of a new program in Prince George – Juniper House Long-Term Care. One of several Connective programs opening in PG this year, we are honoured to provide this service and continue responding to the needs of our growing community.
Introducing: Juniper House
Juniper House is a licensed care program that will provide a safe and supportive home for adults and seniors living with dementia or acquired brain injuries (ABI). Located at 1777 Yew Street, this 14-unit facility offers 24/7 wraparound support tailored to the unique needs and goals of each resident.
Set to begin welcoming its first residents this month, the program offers individuals who have been referred by Northern Health the opportunity to live more independently within the community, while having their care needs met. Residents will benefit from nutritious meals, individualized case planning, and access to a wide range of community resources to support their well-being.
“Juniper House hopes to significantly enhance the quality of life for its service users by providing tailored, compassionate care that addresses their unique needs. Staff are excited to help foster a sense of dignity and independence among residents, even as they navigate complex health challenges. For families, we hope to offer the peace of mind that comes with knowing their loved ones are in a supportive and professional environment.”
– Tim, Senior Manager
A New Chapter at 1777 Yew Street
After several months of thoughtful renovations, the former senior’s lodge is ready for its new life as a community care facility. Connective’s partnership with Northern Health has ensured the program is designed to meet the needs of those living with dementia and acquired brain injuries. The facility features individualized units, shared bathrooms and common spaces, along with an inviting outdoor and garden space for residents to enjoy.
The building’s use as a licensed care facility aligns with its preestablished purpose and fits into the existing neighbourhood dynamic, while allowing us to repurpose an unutilized space to respond to the housing crisis and alleviate pressure on hospitals and other clinical facilities.
This program’s location also provides residents with easy access to local infrastructure – including healthcare, transit networks, shops, public spaces, and other amenities – allowing them to feel included in community.
10 of the building’s units will be dedicated to seniors with dementia, and four for adults with ABI.
“The program has been designed to encourage social interaction and meaningful engagement through group activities, social events, and personalized care. Together with family involvement, we hope to maintain and even strengthen the social bonds that are crucial for residents’ emotional and mental health.”
– Tim, Senior Manager
A New Resource for Prince George
The housing crisis has had detrimental effects on everyone’s well-being, but especially on those who are also dealing with overlapping challenges – such as those struggling with dementia and in need of long-term care facilities, or those living with acquired brain injuries. This is true across the province, and Prince George is no different.
“Juniper House will play a role in addressing the growing needs of an aging population and individuals requiring specialized care in Prince George. The facility will also enhance community health infrastructure by providing employment opportunities and fostering a welcoming, diverse community. By offering all of this locally, Juniper House will help keep families united and preserve its residents’ sense of belonging.”
– Tim, Senior Manager
Connective has been actively delivering services in Prince George for the last several years. Our team of over 100 local staff are excited to expand our growing range of programs and services with the addition of Juniper House, and to get to know our new neighbours at this location.
Why ‘Juniper’?
The program’s name references the evergreen shrub. With a distinct woody and fragrant smell, juniper is a resilient plant that can make it through even the harshest growing conditions. As a staple for birds and mammals during tough winter months, they are often associated with hope.
“We hope to see the facility becoming an integral part of the community, offering new opportunities for engagement, connection, and support among residents, staff, and the broader community.”
In addition to this program, we are honoured to operate the supportive housing programs at 160 Ontario Street and 1550 Victoria Street, the ACES employment program, and a range of community outreach and support initiatives.
Looking Ahead
Over the next few weeks, Juniper House will begin welcoming its first residents, with the goal of having the program fully occupied and operating by mid-November.
Staff are looking forward to settling into a sense of daily routine, and beginning to see positive impacts on the lives of service users and their families.
For those who are interested in admission to Juniper House:
Admission Criteria
Individuals must either:
- Be living with dementia and eligible for long term care services or
- Be living with an acquired brain injury
Beyond these requirements, residents are selected for this program through the Northern Health Authority’s referral process.
To engage with this process, we recommend contacting the Home Health / Community Services office nearest you.
You can also find more information – including eligibility requirements and referral, application, and assessment processes – by visiting Northern Health’s Accessing Services page.