ESTEVAN — Estevan's long-standing goal of a new regional nursing home came one step closer to reality on Sept. 27, as about 60 community leaders, government officials and residents gathered for a sod-turning ceremony at the site of the future long-term care home.
The ceremony, held on land across Sister Roddy Road from St. Joseph's Hospital grounds, marked a major milestone in the project that promises to enhance elder care in the region.
The new facility, designed to meet the growing needs of Estevan and surrounding areas, will replace the current Estevan Regional Nursing Home, which has served the community for decades but has struggled with aging infrastructure for a while. The project will bring 129 long-term care beds in addition to the existing 38 at St. Joseph's Hospital's long-term care.
Milestone for the community
Estevan MLA Lori Carr, who hosted the event, called the sod-turning a critical step forward in a long and challenging journey.
"This is a milestone for our community and a really, really important one," she said, noting the years of effort put into advancing the project. "As MLA, it is an incredible honour to join you all and celebrate this important milestone for the Estevan Long-Term Care Home. The home will include 129 long-term care beds, which is an increase of 59 beds. By adding the additional beds, we are creating spaces that will enhance the quality of lives, providing essential services and community growth."
Carr highlighted the significance of the project in keeping families connected, emphasizing that the additional beds will allow more residents to remain in their hometowns.
"This proximity allows families to remain connected and involved in their loved one's care, which is crucial for maintaining emotional support and quality of life for all the residents," she said.
Carr also spoke about the thoughtful planning behind the location, chosen for its accessibility and ability to accommodate future expansion. Carr also took time to recognize the Estevan New Regional Nursing Home Committee, singling out original committee members Marguerite Gallaway, Jim Pratt and Don Kindopp, who were present at the event, for their relentless advocacy.
"Project built with bricks of faith"
Kindopp, chairman of the new nursing home committee, was deeply moved as he addressed the audience, reflecting on the years of work that had led to this pivotal moment.
"It's like looking in a rear-view mirror. There's lots behind us, but we have to look forward," he said, describing the project as a "milestone" on a long journey that began in 2006.
Kindopp detailed the early fundraising efforts that helped lay the foundation for the new facility, recalling how the community rallied together in unique and creative ways. From planting and harvesting canola to a very young girl making and selling charm bracelets, to raffling handmade quilts, to assigning the project as the beneficiary of estates, the community's dedication never wavered.
"In May of 2011, the Hearthstone Community Campaign was launched to raise the required 20 per cent of the cost of construction. Three and a half years later, the generosity, the faith, the caring of our community of citizens, our local businesses and our municipal governments allowed us to reach our goal," Kindopp said.
"I am very thankful for all that makes up our communities and for the generosity, the leadership, both civic and municipal, and the support from all of you. And now, with this sod-turning ceremony, our project moves forth."
Acknowledging that there are still hurdles to overcome, Kindopp spoke candidly about the need for additional fundraising, especially with inflation and the scope of the project nearly doubling, as the initial plan assumed 70 beds. The expansion will require more financial support from both the government and the community. However, he remains hopeful, urging a collaborative approach to reduce costs.
"Why reinvent the wheel? There are many facilities like this being built in other provinces. We can bring those plans here to Estevan and build more efficiently," he suggested.
Despite the challenges, Kindopp celebrated the moment, calling the project one "built with the bricks of faith, the mortar of love, and the steel girth of caring. Hallelujah!" he exclaimed, a sentiment supported by applause from those in attendance.
Commitment from the city
Coun. Shelly Veroba echoed the excitement shared by many in Estevan. She highlighted the City of Estevan's role in supporting the project, particularly its commitment to providing the land for the new facility.
"The City of Estevan knows the importance of having our province invest in critical health-care infrastructure in our community," she said.
Veroba was also keen to recognize the volunteers and businesses that have supported the nursing home project through fundraising and advocacy.
"There are people who have continued to fundraise and volunteered their time and efforts to keep this project moving forward," she said. "We are thankful to all of them for knowing the value this new nursing home will bring to Estevan and surrounding areas."
Looking ahead, Veroba underscored the lasting impact the new facility will have on the region.
"With the increased number of beds, our community will be able to service more people in need of higher levels of care. … This investment is essential for future generations," she said.
Moving forward
While the ceremony celebrated the symbolic start of construction, there is still much work to be done. The next phase of the project will involve detailed design planning, in collaboration with the Ministry of SaskBuilds and Procurement and local stakeholders. The timeline for completion remains fluid, but Carr stressed her commitment to ensuring the project progresses smoothly.
"My job will be to ensure the timelines keep moving, that progress is being made, and that if things are stalling for whatever reason, I find out what that is and ensure that we get this moving as quickly as possible," she said.
Kindopp said he hopes to see work starting as soon as the next spring.
