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Clockwise from far left : Toby does the washing in his new home ; Afford Group Homes residents Toby , Andrew and Daryl ; Afford Group Homes residents Andrew , Daryl and Toby with Afford CEO Steven Herald .

Celebrating community living

Celebrating one year in their purpose-built homes , residents of the Australian Foundation for Disability ( Afford ) Group Homes in Penrith , Sydney , have developed confidence in living independently .

When Afford teamed up with the NSW State Government ’ s Family and Community Services – Ageing Disability and Home Care ( ADHC ) to build 12 Group Homes for 40 residents , the goal was to create homely environments where residents could enjoy living life with choice and control .

The residents who moved into the new homes have enjoyed learning new life skills , making new friends and taking pride in the upkeep of their homes .
Each resident has had the opportunity to contribute to the styling of the home and the selection of furniture for common spaces . Housemates also work together to
maintain the gardens by planting and harvesting vegetables to use in cooking , as well as decorating the
outdoor area through painting and general garden maintenance .
Residents of the Afford Group Homes are supported 24 hours a day , seven days a week by qualified Lifestyle Assistants . This holistic approach includes being supported to learn about healthy eating habits and choosing healthy meal options and foods at the supermarket .
Steven Herald , Afford CEO , said that Afford Group Homes have been welcomed by residents and their families , as well as the broader Penrith community , as a way of encouraging diversity and social inclusion .
“ These homes offer residents the chance to live comfortably with their own space and routines and enjoy the social aspect of living with others with similar interests and experiences ,” Mr Herald said . “ The homes have a real community feel with everyone putting in the effort to make their homes look great and suit their lifestyle . Many of the residents come together for barbecues , to share a meal together and celebrate each other ’ s milestones .
“ Most residents work in the local area and enjoy community activities – a favourite for many is their involvement in the local football team , Try Time !”
Mr Herald said group homes were places where people with disability can feel safe and comfortable in a homely environment which is truly theirs , and have the opportunity to explore and enjoy all that their local community has to offer . www . afford . com . au
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