Fundraising Campaign for Long-Term Care Facility Redevelopment at Maple View Landings (Athens) launches $3,000,000 goal on Wednesday

Athens – A Counties owned and operated 192-bed long-term care facility in Athens, Ontario kicked off its fundraising campaign on Wednesday, May 24th with sights set on $3,000,000 to enhance the lives of residents and staff at the new facility.

The redevelopment project is the largest capital construction project in the history of the United Counties of Leeds and Grenville at over $80,000,000 (million) dollars. Construction of the new three-story, six-wing building is now underway and will replace the existing 60-bed Maple View Lodge facility. Move-in date is targeted for Summer 2025. The existing building will be repurposed, with options currently under review.

“It’s an important day for the expansion and redevelopment at Maple View Landings Long-Term Care and one that will benefit residents in Athens and across Leeds and Grenville,” said Minister Steve Clark. “Our government was proud to support this work as part of our $6.4 billion commitment to improve long-term care across Ontario, and I know the community will show their support as the fundraising committee works towards its ambitious goal.“

“The fundraising goal of $3,000,000 (million) dollars will enhance the facility and provide the very best in Quality of Life amenities,” said Fundraising Committee Chair Doug Struthers. “And we are close to one-third of the way there.”

Mr. Struthers thanked those who have already made contributions and said the committee is actively approaching businesses, organizations and families for their support.

“This project is important to ensure our residents have access to affordable long-term care in a municipally run home where they will receive quality care in a world-class facility,” he said.

Warden Nancy Peckford thanked the Fundraising Committee and stated “Through cooperation, motivation and perseverance, there is no goal we, as a community, cannot accomplish. I call on my colleagues, our industrial and business partners, and our residents to embrace this opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of our residents by donating, organizing events, volunteering and promoting our fundraising campaign.

Other comments were made by Sandro Guarna of McDonald Brothers Construction and Greg Stallard of Turner & Townsend, Project Managers.

The Committee unveiled the campaign status to date of $833,750 with presentations being made by George Tackaberry to honour his mother Phyllis, Jeff Baker, Dick Mitchell and Blair Chant from the Athens Lions Club, Jo-Anne Fletcher and Jim Donovan from the Hudson Burnbrae Foundation and long-time Athens resident Bob Watts. In the upcoming weeks other
announcements will be made with donors who have contributed to this progress.