A new ‘Smart Suite’ has opened at the Rehabilitation Centre for Children in Winnipeg to help children with disabilities gain greater independence at home. (CRF / HANDOUT)
WINNIPEG — A new Smart Suite officially opened Wednesday at the Rehabilitation Centre for Children, giving families a hands-on space to explore home technologies and adaptive tools that can make everyday living more accessible for children and youth with disabilities.
Designed to simulate an apartment or small home, the Smart Suite features a kitchen, living room, computer workspace and bathroom, all equipped with adaptive features. Pediatric clinicians and therapists guide families through visits, assessing challenges and demonstrating technologies such as voice-controlled or eye-tracking systems for blinds, lighting and door controls, along with adaptive kitchen appliances and cabinetry.
“The Smart Suite is a wonderful example of how innovation can create greater independence and opportunity for children and youth with disabilities,” said Megan Tate, vice-president, community impact, at The Winnipeg Foundation.
Families who take part in guided visits may also qualify for a starter kit of equipment to help offset the initial cost of adding accessibility and smart-home technology at home.
Families unable to attend an in-person session will soon be able to view a video overview of the Smart Suite on the Rehabilitation Centre for Children’s website to help guide discussions with their therapist.
The $275,000 project was funded through a $200,000 gift from the Moffat Family Fund via a Winnipeg Foundation major capital grant, $40,000 from Children’s Rehabilitation Foundation donors, and $35,000 in operational support from the Rehabilitation Centre for Children.
