October 31, 2007
Volume 1, Issue 37

Editor: Rick Scherger

Government of Manitoba News Release - October 25, 2007

RIVER PARK GARDENS PERSONAL-CARE HOME OFFICIALLY OPENS
- - -
New Winnipeg Personal-Care Home To Provide Quality Care for Seniors:

River Park Gardens, a new $14.5-million personal-care home in Winnipeg, was officially opened today by Health Minister Theresa Oswald, Healthy Living Minister Kerri Irvin-Ross, Minister
responsible for seniors, and Réal Cloutier of the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority (WRHA).

"This facility started with Faith Lutheran Church's dream and was built through collaboration and a visionary partnership.  I want to congratulate all the parties for transforming this dream into a reality," said Oswald.  "River Park Gardens will help people stay in this community and get the physical, emotional and spiritual care they need while remaining close to their families and loved ones."

The new 53,000-square-foot facility will provide 80 personal-care beds.  The rooms are located in four wings, each with a dining and entertainment area, a bathing area and quiet room for
visitors and family.  The facility also includes an outdoor courtyard on the main level and large outdoor patios on the second level overlooking the courtyard.

"Our government is investing in a wide range of housing for Manitoba seniors, from supportive community living options to personal-care homes," said Irvin-Ross.  "I'm excited to be a part
of today's opening celebrations for this beautiful new facility that will provide high-quality personal-care services to seniors who can no longer live independently in the community."

River Park Gardens also features a wall honouring the Mager family, whose family home was originally located on the grounds.

"In addition to an innovative design, a number of bricks from the original family home now make up part of the wall along with a plaque detailing the Mager family's history with the site," said Cloutier, WRHA vice-president, long-term care.  "This new facility will provide greater patient privacy, better infection control practices and more dignity for residents."

The construction of River Park Gardens is one component of the province's long-term care strategy for seniors.  The Aging in Place strategy includes:
·         expanded capacity for long-term care options such as supportive housing, specialized supports and supports for seniors in group living;
·         replacement of three- and four-bed rooms with one- and two-bed rooms to help improve quality of life in personal-care homes; and
·         more spaces to ensure more seniors can receive the care they need.