Home Support Services Inc. and the board of trustees for Lonicera Hall have signed a letter of intent to work toward a proposal that would allow the facility to continue offering senior living and care in a manner that honours the vision of Maria F. Ganong.
In April, Lonicera Hall, which is an independent seniors living facility, announced it would close due to operational challenges.
“This decision was not made lightly. It reflects long-standing challenges that have made it increasingly difficult to operate Lonicera Hall in a sustainable and responsible manner,” the release said back in April.
According to a new joint-release sent to The Courier on Wednesday, the letter of intent allows both organizations to work with private and public stakeholders to begin exploring options to sustain operations in the short term, while working toward future long-term goals.
“Through recent discussions, both organizations have identified an opportunity to pause resident transitions while a comprehensive proposal is developed and presented to government partners,” the release said. “Home Support Services Inc. notes that the emerging concept “would create a unique multi-use facility focused on the well-being of seniors in the community.”
Both organizations said the goal is to maintain Lonicera Hall in a way that honours the vision of Maria F. Ganong, whose foundation has been providing independent living in the community for 90 years.
“All exploratory work is being undertaken with care and respect for current residents, while focusing on the development of a sustainable model that could support the facility’s future. Members of both organizations believe this represents a positive step forward,” the release said.
Both HSSI and the board of trustees say discussions with external stakeholders are ongoing and more information will be shared publicly as it becomes available.
“We appreciate the community’s patience as we work toward a solution that supports residents and strengthens the future of senior care in our region,” the release said.
