Fort Simpson (Apr 07/06) - March 31 was a very happy day for the eight residents of the Stanley Isaiah Supportive Living Home in Fort Simpson.

It was the day they found out that the government had changed its mind and awarded the contract for running the home back to the Liidlii Kue First Nations.

Residents of Stanley Isaiah Supportive Living Home use their smiles to show their reaction to Liidlii Kue First Nation receiving the contract. Rosie Boots, back left, Jocelyn Marcellais, Jacinte Betsedea, Gilbert Fantasque, Chris Cli, Albertine Betsedea, front right, and Lynn Wharton, manager. - Roxanna Thompson/NNSL photo

"I was like yippee, thank goodness," said Jocelyn Marcellais, one of the residents.

"I was excited we got the whole staff back," she said.

LKFN's contract has been extended for a year, changing the earlier decision on March 16 that awarded the contract to Yellowknife-based Life Care Planning.

During meetings last week with officials from Deh Cho Health and Social Services, everything fell into place, said Rock Matte, the executive director for LKFN. A better understanding was reached on the proposal, Matte said.

"We all realized the proposal wasn't that different from their expectations," said Matte.

"I feel totally vindicated and I feel totally elated," said Anne Marie McGuire, the director of health and social programs for the LKFN, shortly after hearing the news.

Staff were informed on Friday that their two week notices were no longer necessary.

On Monday morning things got back to normal as the programs outlined in the new proposal were adopted, said McGuire.

Under the new proposal, efforts will continue to enhance independent life skills so the clients can achieve the highest level of independence possible. More client and community integration through programs such as job coaching and placements will be implemented, said McGuire.

"We are trying to make bridges into the community so the transition between the group home and the community is as easy as possible," said McGuire.

She compared the process to getting ready for a boat trip.

Last year was the construction year, said McGuire in which the boat was built and all the safety devices were gathered together.

This year people will be taught to use the equipment so they can have a safe trip.

Lynn Wharton, the manager at the living home, said the past weeks have been an emotional time for the clients, but everyone is very happy and things are settling down.

Phone calls to Deh Cho Health and Social Services about the reason for the change in the contract decision were not returned before deadline on Tuesday.