Permanent modular homes for unhoused seniors have been arranged to arrive in Hinton by the end of the year after damage caused by a wildfire in Jasper last year.
The $18-million dollar seniors complex will include 21 stand-alone units.
The units are supposed to be a temporary solution for those affected by the blaze, and the homes will stay in the Hinton community. The project is funded by the province, and the units will be operated by the Evergreens Foundation, a not-for-profit housing organization that will act as a landlord.
Pine Grove Manor was destroyed in July 2024, displacing 33 seniors. It’s been almost a year to find housing for everyone — some ended up in Wetaskiwin, Edmonton, Stony Plain, Spruce Grove and Edson.
Former Pine Grove residents will receive first priority when it comes to the modular homes, followed by other displaced Jasper seniors, then seniors from Hinton and Yellowhead County if spaces allow.
Rent is approximated by income, meaning residents will pay no more than 30 per cent of their income.
Amber Edgerton, a spokesperson with Alberta’s ministry of assisted living and social services, said the provincial government is committed to rebuilding seniors housing in Jasper.
She shared that the remains of the old Pine Grove building have been demolished, and they are working with the Evergreens Foundation to restore what was lost, and to make “meaningful enhancements.”
The new manor will have 45 units, an increase of 36 per cent compared to the original building.
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