Written By David Gomez, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
AILSA CRAIG - On December 11th, the Ailsa Craig community celebrated a significant milestone in healthcare with the groundbreaking of the new Craigholme long-term care home. This redevelopment project promises to deliver 96 modern long-term care beds, enhancing the living conditions of seniors in the area.
Elaine Shantz, President and CEO of Craigwiel Gardens, expressed her excitement about the historic day. “Today marks an amazing day as we break ground on a project that symbolizes a significant leap forward for our community’s healthcare infrastructure,” Shantz stated.
The new facility will include 13 new and 83 redeveloped beds, spread across two storeys and three distinct residential home areas (RHAs), each featuring dedicated dining rooms, lounges, activity areas, and more. The addition of a chapel, multipurpose room, bistro, and hair salon further illustrates the commitment to providing a holistic and dignified living environment for the elderly.
Steve Pinsonneault, MPP for Lambton-Kent-Middlesex, highlighted the government’s role in this advancement. “Our government is committed to accelerating the construction of long-term care homes,” Pinsonneault said. “This project not only replaces the aging existing home but also represents our broader commitment to building long-term care capacity across the province.”
The project benefits from the Construction Funding Subsidy top-up, part of Ontario’s strategy to add 58,000 new and upgraded long-term care beds. “With help from our partners, we are building new homes and redeveloped LTC spaces across Ontario, the largest building program in our province’s history,” Pinsonneault added.
During the ceremony, Shantz and Pinsonneault were joined by other key figures, including Sarah Campbell, Executive Director of Craigwiel Gardens, and Jennifer Gillies, Board of Directors Chair. Campbell praised the community’s enduring support: “Your presence here marks an extraordinary moment in history. We are proud to share it with you all, as you helped make this possible.”
Jennifer Gillies reflected on the journey, emphasizing the community’s critical role. “This eight-year journey has been a testament to teamwork,” Gillies remarked. “Thanks to the unwavering support and tenacity of our board of directors and community members, we are now poised to offer a facility that will serve our seniors today and in the future.”
The new Craigholme is expected to open its doors in early 2027, providing a safe and modern residence for 96 residents, and marking a new chapter in the provision of senior care in the region.
