SAFE homes providing a high quality of life for Saint Lucia’s elderly, was the dream and it has been realised several times over by the Adelaide Homes. Now, 30 years after opening the doors of the first home in Sans Soucis, the home is celebrating a legacy that older persons now and in the future will enjoy.
The 30th celebration is especially poignant for founder and Chairman of the Board of Adelaide’s Home Augustus E. Justin, who says: “Faith has kept me strong on my journey. I have met many obstructions but many have believed in me and supported the cause of the poor and elderly of our country.”
The endeavour began with the Adelaide Home (Sans Soucis 1985), and was followed with the Frances Memorial (1990), Adelaide and Frances Complex (1994), and Johnson Memorial (2012). A recent expansion of the Johnson’s Home and placement of management of the homes in the hands of a local Foundation has marked completion of the vision that is Adelaide Homes.
Director of the Adelaide Homes Foundation George Theophilus said: “The Johnson Memorial Home is a manifestation of twin peaks of St Lucian humanity and greatness. Bernard Johnson in a rare feat of consideration for others voluntarily donated the family property on The Morne to the Augustus Justin Foundation in the cause of fostering the care of the elderly. Augustus Justin appreciating the spirit and significance of this outstanding act of generosity first refurbished the Home restoring it to its pristine architectural glory. Not to be outdone he almost singlehandedly built on the property a modern home for the elderly to complement the generous inheritance. In this we witness the greatness of two St Lucians whose selflessness should long serve as a model for national pride and unqualified praise.”
“This is a gift from me and my family to my fellow Saint Lucians,” said Justin. “We have to be cognizant of the fact that our children may not be there for us during our twilight years. Some of us may be blessed
with caring people around us, but the majority may not be that fortunate. My foundation will continue to seek your prayers and support for the work the Lord has started.”
The newest structure built on what was originally the Johnson’s Home at the Morne, features some of the most comfortable lodgings available for the elderly. Surrounded by lush grounds, the home is bright with large well-kept rooms. A constant breeze wafts away the heat and quiets the homely conversation of residents and staff.
Family photos, religious objects and other keepsakes add domestic comfort to the rooms, making each resident’s space their own. Bathrooms, while shared, are plentiful. There is one close to every room, ensuring residents’ privacy.
Anticipating the requirements of different individuals, Adelaide’s Homes also includes five suites. These cater to residents requesting additional space and privacy, and includes additional amenities.
The various wings of the home honour those who have contributed to making it a reality, including Phyllis Justin, Mollison Walcott and the late Justice Suzy d’Auvergne.
There are several common areas for gathering, hosting visitors and prayer, which carry the names of benefactors of the Adelaide’s Home. Monsignor Patrick Anthony, Aloysius Steven, Prim Magloire and George Theophilus are among the names set in history.
A ground-breaker from the start, the Adelaide’s Homes have brought comfort and joy to many. For some it has filled a financial, emotional and spiritual need, for others it added a touch of joy to an already happy and fulfilled life. In many instances . Justin and other Friends of the elderly have been directly involved in making sure the sense of family and love prevailed. In every instance the Adelaide’s Homes have gone the extra mile to ensure residents are not only alive, but are living.
As the Adelaide Homes marks its the thirtieth anniversary, it is a worthy exemplar of Augustus Justin’s vision of a not for profit home providing an exceptionally high quality of life for older and more needy persons and a venture to be celebrated by all Saint Lucians.
Congratulations to Adelaide’s Homes. This is a milestone not easily achieved.