The Wikwemikong Nursing Home (WNH) is a non-profit Long-Term Care facility, constructed in 1972, located on the Wikwemikong Unceded Territory. The existing facility has the capacity for 59 beds and is currently operating at capacity with a waiting list. Design standards have changed significantly since 1972 and the existing facility does not meet current regulations and space requirements.
The WNH is classified as a “C” home and the license is set to expire on June 30, 2025. If nothing changes, WNH will have to close, residents will have to move out and those jobs will no longer exist. This is unacceptable for the Elders and the community of Wikwemikong who have been providing valuable long-term care services for the past 48 years in the community for both First Nation and non-First Nation Elders.
For the license to be renewed for the next 30 years, Wikwemikong must meet the new design standards set out by the Minister of Health and Long-Term Care of Ontario which came into effect in 2015. An assessment of the current facility was conducted to determine if upgrades can be implemented to meet the new standards. It has been determined that a new facility is required in order to be licensed by the Ministry. The study also determined a 96 bed facility is the most feasible for our facility.
An architectural design and costing has been implemented by WNH. The projected cost for a new facility is $31,000,000. WNH is eligible for Ministry financing of $11,000,000 as well as a Ministry grant of $3,000,000. WNH will need to secure financial support in the amount of $17,000,000.
For more information on our Capital Campaign please visit www.honouringourelders.ca
