FAQ’s | GP Residential Society

GPRS is a volunteer-led non-profit founded in 1986 that provides safe, affordable, and fully barrier-free housing for people with physical disabilities in Grande Prairie, Alberta. We currently operate 87 accessible units across three housing phases — from the original Crystal Ridge duplexes built in 1987 to Margaret Edgson Manor, which opened in 2005.

Yes. GPRS is a CRA-registered non-profit charitable organization (BN 891431264RR0001). Tax receipts for donations are issued through our partner, the Grande Spirit Foundation. When donating, please note “GPRS Donation” so your contribution is properly directed and your receipt is accurate.

The Grande Spirit Foundation (GSF) manages our housing properties and processes donations on our behalf. GSF is a long-established housing foundation serving Northern Alberta since 1960. When you donate to GPRS, your contribution flows through GSF (Registered Charity #102169158RR0001), which issues your tax receipt. GPRS maintains full governance over its housing and mission through its own volunteer board of directors.

Margaret Edgson was a strong advocate for accessible transportation and housing for people with disabilities in the Grande Prairie region. Our largest housing project — Margaret Edgson Manor — was named in her honour when it opened in 2005, recognizing her lasting contributions to the community she helped shape.

Yes. All our housing is designed to be fully barrier-free. Features include zero-threshold entries, wide doorways, roll-in showers with grab bars, wheelchair-accessible kitchens with adjustable counter heights, automatic door openers, and ramps or elevators where applicable. Priority is given to applicants who use wheelchairs.

Our housing is designed for individuals with physical disabilities affecting mobility who need barrier-free homes and meet GPRS income criteria. Priority is given to wheelchair users. We welcome applications from residents of Grande Prairie and surrounding areas.

Applicants must meet GPRS income criteria. Income thresholds are based on Alberta’s Household Income Limits for affordable housing programs. You can review the current limits on the Alberta government website. If you’re unsure whether you qualify, contact us — we’re happy to walk you through it.

Absolutely. Many of our residents receive Alberta Income Support for the Severely Handicapped (AISH) or other disability benefits. Receiving these supports does not disqualify you from applying.

Wait times vary depending on unit availability and each applicant’s specific needs. We encourage you to submit an application so we can add you to our list and contact you when a suitable unit becomes available. Start your application here.

You can start your application directly on our website. The process involves filling out a form, providing documentation (proof of disability, income verification, and identification), and a review by our team. We guide you through each step.

You’ll typically need proof of physical disability, income verification, government-issued identification, and any relevant medical or support documentation. Full details and specific requirements are outlined on the application page.

On June 9, 2025, a fire severely damaged Margaret Edgson Manor, displacing all residents — including several requiring mobility assistance. Thanks to first responders, no lives were lost. The building is now being rebuilt to updated building codes, with improved safety features.

Selective demolition is complete. A new roof has been constructed to updated building codes, and fourth-floor framing is underway. The GPRS Board continues to work with Terrace Construction toward a safe, lasting rebuild. Follow our progress on the News & Updates page.

Every donation goes directly toward reconstruction. You can donate online through the Grande Spirit Foundation’s Benevity platform On behalf of GPRS, send an Interac e-transfer, or mail a cheque. Volunteering your time also makes a real difference — visit our volunteer page to learn how.

There are several ways to give. You can donate online through ATB Benevity, send an Interac e-transfer to the Grande Spirit Foundation (note “GPRS Donation” in the message), or mail a cheque payable to Grande Spirit Foundation with “GPRS Donation” in the memo. Full details are on our donate page.

Yes. All donations to GPRS are tax-deductible. Tax receipts are issued by the Grande Spirit Foundation (Registered Charity #102169158RR0001). For e-transfer and cheque donations, be sure to include “GPRS Donation” so your receipt is issued correctly.

GPRS was built by volunteers and still runs on their dedication. You can join a committee, become a Society member, help with administrative support, community outreach, or event coordination. Visit our volunteer page to learn about current opportunities and sign up.

Not at all. Whether you have professional skills, lived experience, or simply want to support the cause, there’s a place for you. We especially welcome people with experience in construction, fundraising, communications, or governance — but all help is valued and makes a difference.