The Town of Wadena is celebrating the grand opening of a new group home in the community.

Operated by Mallard Diversified Services, the home had a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Tuesday.

"Today is a happy day for individuals living here as they get to return to a permanent home and start a new beginning," noted Wadena MLA Hugh Nerlien, who was on hand for the ceremony. 

Mallard provides training opportunities, employment, and residential options for adults with intellectual disabilities.

Executive Director Ryan Calder stated that it is great to have the project complete.

"It is a very emotional day for all of us," he explained. "On behalf of the residents, their families, the staff, and the board, we want to thank the provincial government for stepping forward and assisting us in turning a catastrophe into a new beginning."

The original home was lost in a fire in 2015 after being struck by lightning.

Mallard has two other group homes as well as a supportive living program. The new home will support six people - five of which were moved out when the fire occurred.

The government provided funding in the form of a mortgage up to $869,945.