Gemma House is a 6-bed long-term residential group home for youth who have status under Calgary and Area Child and Family Services Authority. Gemma House accepts youth who have the capacity to benefit from a group living environment, are likely to adjust to and benefit from the other youth in the home without putting the others at risk, and those who require a long term placement outside of their family home.

Theoretical Framework
The philosophy of the program focuses on the supreme worth of every human being and the role positive relationships play in bringing about this end result.

Program Description
Programs and services promote practices easily generalized to other settings. All program activities at Gemma House serve the following objectives.

• Facilitate the development of relationships between staff and youth
• Develop social ties in the community promoting and enhancing independent functioning.
• Enhance family connections and personal rewards

Gemma promotes the involvement of each youth in individual social encounters of his or her own choice. This may range from sporting activities, music, arts,crafts, social happenings, school programs, employment and personal relationships. Individual achievements are given priority over group activity as we work to establish the youth's independence.

Contact Manager of Residential Services
Danielle Ladouceur

Contact Gemma House Supervisor
Patricia Sefel