Christmas is a time for family but for employees with Queens Association For Supported Living, it’s also a time to share with the people they care for every day.
QASL operates three group homes for individuals with challenges.
Although some residents go with family for the holidays, many stay and celebrate with staff.
Residential counsellor Erin MacNeil says the residents are like any family at Christmas.
“They’re no different, they still enjoy their traditions and staff bringing their kids in because we are a huge family here.”
It can be hard working over Christmas when you have a family but MacNeil says it’s definitely made easier when you’re celebrating with your second family.
“It’s what you bring into it, if you come in kind of grumpy, ‘bah-humbug I don’t want to be here,’ they’re going to feel that so we come in and do our best to keep them in good spirits and you’ve got some staff who will stop at nothing, they’re singing, they’re dancing.
One of MacNeil’s daughters has a special bond with one of the residents.
MacNeil says he invited her to QASL’s annual dance as his guest and she’ll likely be one of many of the workers’ family members who pop by for a Christmas Day visit.
And according to MacNeil the residents love getting visitors, no matter the time of year.
Everyone at the homes are ready for Christmas now. They’ve done their shopping, had their annual dance, and now they’re anxiously waiting for Santa.
