Individuals with acquired brain injuries will soon have access to specialized care and services at a new 26-bed supportive living home, Connect Saanich Peninsula, in Saanichton.
Launched on Monday, June 23 and spearheaded by the Ministry of Health, the initiative aims to provide accessible and comprehensive support closer to home for residents of Vancouver Island.
The facility, located at 2477 Mt. Newton Cross Rd., is operated by Connect Communities in partnership with Island Health.
Connect Saanich Peninsula has 13 short-term beds for people transitioning to more independent living and 13 long-term beds for those requiring ongoing support.
A dedicated team delivers comprehensive rehabilitation therapy centered around the individual's recovery journey. This includes personal care, medication management, life skills training, various therapeutic services and opportunities for participation in cultural and social activities, all delivered under Connect’s Life Redesign Model of care.
"This new brain injury supportive living reflects our government's ongoing commitment to strengthening the entire continuum of care for mental health, substance use and complex neurological needs,” said Minister of Health Josie Osborne during the opening ceremony. “And we're not stopping here.”
The ministry has already committed to further expanding these crucial services with a second Connect-operated supportive living home slated to open in Parksville in 2026, ensuring that even more individuals have access to the specialized care they require within their community.
"These really are the kinds of services that change lives," Osborne said. "They provide a dignity of choice, a pathway to recovery and the opportunity to thrive after life-threatening brain injuries.”
Elder Mavis Underwood of the Tsawout Nation, a partner in the initiative, expressed her nation's honour in supporting the new program.
"Tsawout Nation is honoured to be a partner in this important new health-care program, which will support members of our Nation, other WSANEC communities and south-Island residents living with brain injuries to walk the path of treatment, recovery and long-term wellness," she said.
“The opportunity to push aside fear and helplessness in the face of brain injury will help individuals struggling to heal and will encourage their families to believe that the best hope rests with early support, encouragement and good people.”
Saanich Peninsula Connect is conveniently located beside NIL TU,O Child and Family Services, further integrating it within the community's network of support.
