The Salvation Army Ottawa Grace Manor Celebrates 20th Anniversary
The Salvation Army Ottawa Grace Manor celebrated their 20th anniversary in the community of Hintonburg this Fall.
A small outdoor celebration was held in conjunction with the ‘Taste of Hintonburg” event which brought locals and tourists alike to the community to enjoy the best of what the neighbourhood has to offer.
Grace Manor hosted an information booth, some games and a visit with Salvation Army mascot Shieldy.
The long-term care home was built in 2002, replacing Grace Hospital, which closed after 95 years of operation. Ottawa Grace Manor has 5 resident home areas with either 25 or 26 beds on each, for a total of 128 residents.
“Over the last 20 years, long-term care has evolved to incorporate resident centered care, providing a healthcare setting in which residents are encouraged to be actively involved in their care, with a physical environment that promotes resident comfort,” said Executive Director Cameron McCallum. “Our compassionate staff are dedicated to meeting the physical, emotional and spiritual needs of residents.”
Staff and volunteers at Ottawa Grace Manor are highly valued and respected.
“Grace Manor is a special place, and different from so many long-term care environments, because it truly feels like home. The staff go the extra mile to offer individualized care to each resident based on their personal needs, interests and goals,” said Carrie Cunningham. “The family members and friends of the residents actively participate in decision making and have developed friendships with the individuals offering care.“
Carrie says the staff are so grateful to their devoted volunteers who dedicate their time and skillsets to ensure the residents have companionship, recreational opportunities and support.
Over the last 2 years the COVID-19 pandemic created many challenges for those working in long-term care. Staff at Ottawa Grace Manor used their creativity to maintain the standard of care and continue to offer enriching activities while working within public health guidelines.
“We saw how significant it was for residents to engage in recreational activities for their spiritual, emotional and physical health and so we expanded our Life Enrichment team to have a full-time staff in each home area,” said Carrie. “In addition, we partnered with The Ottawa Hospital and the Resident Support Aide program.”
As for the future, Grace Manor continues to build on their excellent quality of care and service.
“Ottawa Grace Manor has undertaken several projects and is in the last stages of renovations, including new flooring, resident furnishings, revamped common rooms, new dining furnishings and HVAC system,” said Cameron.
“After 20 years we are proud to celebrate all that the Ottawa Grace Manor has become with our staff, volunteers, residents, families and community,” said Cameron. “We look forward to being here and providing the best possible care for generations to come.”
By: Caroline Franks
