A new respite home opened in Saint-Georges, Quebec this week, offering a vital service to caregivers in the Chaudière-Appalaches region . Operated by the Coopérative Aide chez Soi en Beauce, the facility aims to address a growing need for short-term care as the region’s aging population increases the demands on family and friends who provide support [[1]].The seven-bed home began accepting residents in early September and has already assisted nearly fifteen individuals, providing a crucial break for those dedicated to caring for loved ones.
A new respite home for the Chaudière-Appalaches region officially opened its doors Monday in Saint-Georges, offering crucial support for caregivers in the area.
Operated by the Coopérative Aide chez Soi en Beauce, the facility located at 1st Avenue Clermont-Pépin began operations in early September and has already served nearly fifteen individuals. The opening addresses a growing need for respite care as the region’s population trends older, impacting the demand for support services.
In Chaudière-Appalaches, our population is slightly older than that of the entire province of Quebec. Improving the quality of life for seniors is therefore a major issue, and this cannot be done without fully recognizing the essential contribution of caregivers. In recent years, their profiles have become more diverse. Some caregivers are themselves experiencing a loss of autonomy, while others juggle work and family. Their daily lives involve significant stress, responsibilities and emotional challenges. It is therefore essential to offer appropriate and accessible resources and, above all, to encourage people to seek help before burnout. This home represents a decisive step forward for the region. It complements the current offer for caregivers and makes services even more accessible in a home-like environment.
Stéphanie Simoneau, directrice adjointe CISSS de Chaudière-Appalaches
The new home features seven beds, four fewer than the previous Gilles-Carle House in Saint-René, which closed in September 2023. However, Beauce-Sud Minister and Member of Parliament Samuel Poulin assured that the facility will meet the region’s needs, noting that the Saint-René location rarely operated at full capacity. This investment reflects a broader trend of increased focus on community-based care solutions.
The Quebec government has invested CAD $1.7 million over three years to support the operation of the new respite home. The Coopérative Aide chez Soi en Beauce contributed an additional CAD $650,000 to acquire and adapt the former inn that now houses the facility. The funding underscores the government’s commitment to bolstering social services in the region.
Approximately 13 employees, including a cook, will provide 24-hour service. The home will be closed during the Christmas and construction holidays. Staffing levels demonstrate the cooperative’s dedication to providing consistent care.
Our secret is that we have 300 employees throughout Beauce to serve clients at home. That’s our expertise, that’s what sets us apart. We already had dedicated people who were mobilized. For the moment, finding labor is not a challenge. In addition, being located in Saint-Georges helps the project to develop.
Nathalie Frenette, directrice générale, Coopérative Aide Chez Soi en Beauce.
