Ontario Construction News staff writer
Construction is underway at Fairview Mennonite Homes in Cambridge, peopleCare A.R. Goudie in Kitchener, and The Elliott Long Term Care Residence in Guelph – three of 67 long-term care home projects fast-tracked this fall across Ontario.
“Congratulations to the teams at Fairview Mennonite Homes, peopleCare A.R. Goudie Kitchener and The Elliott Long Term Care Residence on their ground-breakings for three modernized and expanded homes,” said Stan Cho, minister of long-term care. “Today marks a significant milestone for Cambridge, Kitchener and Guelph. When construction is complete, 349 additional residents will have a new, modern and comfortable place to call home.”
The current 84-bed long-term care home at Fairview Mennonite Homes in Cambridge will add two additional wings and one floor to create a modernized 192-bed home, including 11 additional beds proposed for dementia care. The home is part of a campus of care, which includes retirement suites, independent living, and supports for home care and active living. The expanded home is expected to welcome its first residents in fall 2025.
“The expansion of our long-term care home honours a legacy of kindness extending back 80 years,” said Elaine Shantz, president and CEO, Fairview Mennonite Homes. “By more than doubling in size, we will continue to serve seniors in this community by increasing access to the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual care they need in a beautiful, modern home that supports their dignity and brings peace of mind to their loved ones.”
Construction at peopleCare A.R. Goudie Kitchener will deliver a new 128-bed building as an addition to the current 80-bed home, which creates a 208-bed home. The home will be part of a new campus of care that offers a range of housing options for older adults. The new building is expected to welcome its first residents in fall 2025.
A renovation at The Elliott Long Term Care Residence in Guelph will add 29 new beds to create a modernized 114-bed home. The home is part of a campus of care that also includes a retirement home and independent living. These buildings, along with the long-term care home, are connected to a community centre hub which is accessible to all residents and their families. The expanded home is expected to welcome its first residents in summer 2024.
All projects include design improvements – larger resident common areas and air conditioning throughout the home.
“We are seeing unprecedented investment in long-term care in our province, including right here in Waterloo Region,” said Jess Dixon, Kitchener South—Hespeler MPP. “The A.R. Goudie Home has been a part of senior care in Kitchener since 1962 and I am grateful to the Ministry of Long-Term Care for funding a further 80 beds in the already-planned campus development.
These beds will contribute greatly to the vibrant community of care envisioned by peopleCare, helping local seniors continue to live and age well.”