“That matching grant was huge for us. People thought, ‘if I could donate $1,000, it will become $2,000’.”
The committee has been working on the fundraising aspect for nearly two years. It was important to reach that level of commitment in order to trigger the mortgage for the rest of the construction cost with their financial institution. It is expected to cost in the $6.7 million range.
The assisted living facility will have 35 suites of different sizes and amenities. The idea is for seniors to live in an enclosed space with prepared meals and laundry services. It is meant for those who no longer want to or cannot live in their own homes, but still can live semi-independently in their own apartments.
The next step, Swanson said, is to get people signed up for the suites. Starting January 15, Southwest Seniors Housing will be taking names and deposits for this part of the journey. They will be taking these applications on Wednesday, January 15 at the Boissevain Council Chambers. Although they will not count them before, they will after that date.
Swanson said it gives people an opportunity to secure their suite before construction. On a first-come first-served basis, applicants can put their name down for the type of suite they want – one or two bedrooms, number of bathrooms etc. Each application must come with a $1,000 deposit, which is refundable if the person changes their mind.
“It is an application form for the waiting list for the facility,” Swanson explained. “We need to know how many are looking into it. Hopefully, we will have people come out on January 15 to sign up.”
Flyers have been sent to the public with the basic information. The committee is giving Boissevain-Morton residents the first crack at suites, as they are the ones who contributed to their development. In a week or so, they will start marketing to other communities.
“Then we can advertise outside the community, and we will know if all the double rooms are booked or other details.”
Swanson said their business plan includes some empty suites to start with, as it might be unrealistic to think they will fill 35 immediately. As for who goes where on the waiting list – for example, will Boissevain-Morton residents get priority over others – this all remains to be decided at this point.
The contractor, Gordon Turner Construction, is working on the plans, and Swanson said they would be ready to start construction in the spring. The facility is set to be built next to the Boissevain Health Centre.
Swanson said they are all happy to keep moving in a positive direction.
“We are delighted,” she said. “We met our goals and now we can go forward.”
by PAUL RAYNER, Recorder staff