Te Awamutu’s independent accommodation option for older people, Freeman Court, is joining with Habitat for Humanity Central North Island – a move which management says will cement its future.
Freeman Court general manager Nicki Johnson said the facility was looking forward to strengthening its available resources by amalgamating with Habitat.
“Freeman Court has been a unique and affordable option for Waipa people for nearly 50 years now. This is a really exciting time for us as we look towards the future, and in particular, plan how we can continue to best meet the needs of older people who aspire to live in a way that’s independent, safe and comfortable.”
Habitat for Humanity Central North Island general manager Nic Greene said the not-for-profit organisations shared a belief that “everyone deserves a decent place to live.”
“It’s an obvious match of values and complementary strengths. Freeman Court staff and residents have decades of knowledge in best practice operation of accommodation for older people. Habitat has significant experience in construction, procurement and managing rental and home ownership programmes for people of all ages.”
“Neither organisation has an interest in profit, but we share a strong desire to ensure older peoples’ homes are affordable, suitable, safe and are free from overcrowding and discrimination. Together, we’ll be even stronger in the way we can go about achieving that,” he said.
Improvements to the Freeman Court building would have a positive impact for residents, according to Mr Greene, who said an example was scoping what would be needed to add ensuite bathrooms.
There would be no changes to staff, management or the Freeman Court brand, Mr Greene said, and residents and their families were aware. The Freeman Court board of trustees would stay on in an advisory capacity until the amalgamation was fully complete. The formal process would begin on 1 July, when Habitat for Humanity Central North Island will become the sole trustee of Freeman Court.
Freeman Court is holding an open day for all people who would like to find out more about the facility and celebrate this important milestone in its history. All are invited to attend on Thursday, 11 June 2015, 2pm – 3:30pm.
