A building that once served people facing crisis in Cold Lake has begun a new chapter focused on providing hope, stability and a place to call home for children and youth.

Goshen Quality Care Inc. officially celebrated the opening of Rehoboth House on May 27, welcoming community leaders, healthcare professionals, social service providers and residents from across the Lakeland region to mark the occasion.

The new group home is located in the building that formerly housed the Dr. Margaret Savage Crisis Centre and later Stepping Stones Crisis Society. Following the organization’s move to a new facility, the building has been transformed into a residential home designed to support children and youth who require specialized care and nurturing environments.

The opening ceremony featured a ribbon-cutting attended by representatives from the City of Cold Lake, healthcare organizations, community groups and local service providers.

Among those in attendance were Deputy Mayor Bill Parker, City of Cold Lake General Manager of Community Services Paul McWilliams and former Mayor Craig Copeland, who participated in the official opening celebration.

A Vision Rooted in Care and Belonging

Founded in 2020, Goshen Quality Care Inc. has built its reputation around providing family-style residential care for children and youth, including those who are medically fragile, trauma-affected or living with complex needs.

What began as a single licensed home has grown into an organization serving children and youth from Alberta and across Canada.

For CEO Olu Ajayi, Rehoboth House represents more than an expansion of services.

“Rehoboth House represents much more than a building,” said Ajayi. “It represents hope, healing, stability and opportunity. Every child deserves to feel safe, valued and supported, and this home reflects our commitment to creating environments where children and youth can grow, heal and thrive.”

The event included a presentation highlighting Goshen Quality Care’s journey over the past six years and the organization’s continued commitment to providing compassionate, person-centred care. Guests were then invited to tour the facility and learn more about the programs and services offered within the home.

Supporting Children With Complex Needs

Goshen Quality Care was established on a simple but powerful belief: children and youth deserve more than basic care. They deserve meaningful relationships, individualized support and a place where they feel they belong.

The organization provides trauma-informed care, emotional support, life-skills development, community integration opportunities and coordinated healthcare partnerships designed around the unique needs of each child.

Its services focus on helping young people build confidence, develop life skills and create positive connections within their communities.

By maintaining a family-style environment, Goshen aims to create a setting where children and youth can experience both stability and a sense of normalcy during challenging periods of their lives.

Community Collaboration at the Centre

The opening also highlighted the importance of collaboration among community organizations that work together to support children, youth and families.

Representatives from the Primary Care Network, Family and Community Support Services (FCSS), FASD support services, healthcare providers and other community organizations attended the event.

Goshen Quality Care acknowledged the role these partners play in helping young people access the supports they need to succeed.

The organization also expressed appreciation to the City of Cold Lake and numerous local leaders who have supported its growth since its founding.

Looking to the Future

Rehoboth House represents another milestone in Goshen Quality Care’s ongoing efforts to expand access to quality residential care in northern Alberta.

As a fully licensed and accredited organization, Goshen continues to focus on maintaining high standards of care, safety and accountability while providing environments where children and youth can thrive.

Although the organization serves young people from across Alberta and other parts of Canada, its roots remain firmly planted in Cold Lake.

As guests toured the newly opened facility, the message at the heart of the day was clear: every child deserves a safe place to belong, and Rehoboth House was created to be exactly that.

About Goshen Quality Care

Goshen Quality Care Inc. is a licensed and accredited child and youth care provider based in Cold Lake. Founded in 2020, the organization provides family-style residential care and specialized support services for children and youth, including those who are medically fragile, trauma-affected or living with complex needs. Guided by the principles of care, compassion and community, Goshen Quality Care is committed to creating safe, nurturing environments where children and youth can experience stability, growth and belonging.