Armed with a Minister’s Zoning Order, Cherry Blossom Village is one step closer to becoming a reality in Tay Township.
The MZO order signed late last week by Municipal Affairs and Housing Minister Steve Clark paves the way for proponents to begin next steps in developing the residential care facility designed for those with complex intellectual needs, such as a high-needs autism.
Howard Bloom, founder and clinical director of the planned Tay Township project, applauded the decision by Clark, who also granted MZOs for three Toronto-area projects, and thanked Simcoe North MPP Jill Dunlop and Premier Doug Ford for their support along with Tay councillors, who last summer voted to approve a staff recommendation to support Bloom and Dr. Robert Cooper's request for an MZO.
“Cherry Blossom Village thanks Tay Township for their ongoing support as this announcement enables Cherry Blossom Village to enter the next phase of its development,” Bloom said.
“In particular, Cherry Blossom Village wants to recognize the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services for their continued support of people with autism who need live-in care.”
Bloom, who co-founded Apple Blossom Village in Oro-Medonte a few couple years ago, said the 49 acres of property on Triple Bay Road are the perfect setting for the farm-inspired facility. Cherry Blossom Village will consist of 24-private live-in suites and 10 personal homes to support a total of 34 residents.
Centred around an agricultural program, Bloom said the Tay project will leverage cornerstones of the community –’ compassion, care and a commitment to agriculture’
“In addition to hiring staff to run its agricultural operations, Cherry Blossom Village plans to employ over 120 full-time professionals including child and youth care practitioners, developmental service workers, personal support workers and recreation therapists as well as facility service and culinary staff,” Bloom said.
“Our focus is the provision of quality care for our residents, but we also aspire to positively impact the local economy.”
The Blossom Group provides a home for people with complex special need with therapeutic live-in programs designed to support children, youth, and adults through a range of cognitive, social and emotional issues, including Autism Spectrum Disorders, neurobiological and developmental disabilities, and those with coexisting mental health and behavioural issues.
