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Update on Group Home Construction Project
The movement to move people with developmental disabilities to smaller-scale settings in Galesburg is continuing.

That's according to Bobby Dillard, administrator for Saint Mary's Square in Galesburg. As we've reported, the Square is building over two-dozen group homes -- mostly in Galesburg but also in Knoxville and Abingdon -- with the intention of moving clients into them.

Dillard tells the WGIL Morning News the group home movement started in the 1960's nationally, even though Saint Mary's Square didn't open up until the mid-70's.

"St. Mary's Square has served its purpose, it's been a grand home for a number years for our many adults with developmental disabilities," Dillard said. "But it is time for us to move into the current time, meet the changes that are occurring and have a place that they can really call a home."

"And that's what these new eight-bed facilities will be--- a home for small groups of individuals."

Dillard says there are already 14 group homes in Galesburg, just not any owned or operated by the parent company of Saint Mary's Square.

He says while change is a big drawback for some of the residents who just don't want to move, many of the residents are excited about the changes.
05 16 12 by Newsroom
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