Resident council raises $7,000 for garden project
Space to enjoy for residents, families
Monday August 20, 2007 -- Natalie Miller
Striving to create a pleasant and safe outdoor space for residents with dementia, a residents’ council raised $7,000 to construct a wandering path for all to enjoy at Extendicare St. Catharines.

The long-term care home borders land that encompasses the Niagara River and supports a variety of animals including wild turkeys and deer. Construction of the path allows residents with dementia a secure place to explore and a tranquil setting for family members to visit with their loved ones.

Ron Muir, resident and president of Extendicare St. Catharines’ residents’ council, says the project was a success.

“(The) project idea came about when program staff, residents and family members noticed that we have beautiful outdoor areas that were not being used to their fullest (potential),” says Muir.  

“Also, there are several residents who wander and did not have a safe area to wander around outside.”

In October 2006, the residents’ council voted to fundraise to construct a sidewalk. The council raised the money needed through raffles, donations, bake sales and bazaars.

“One resident in particular spent hours crocheting slippers, others sold raffle tickets,
some worked at the bazaars and others solicited donations,” notes Muir.  

The path was completed in June.

Jeannette Beauregard, resident program manager, says the results are fantastic.

“It gives people an extra area to enjoy the land that we have,” she says.

“We have a lot of wanderers, which I’m sure a lot of long-term care homes do. It’s also so families have a place for visiting."

Already, the area is being explored by residents and family members.

“We are very pleased with the efforts and enthusiasm that was put into the project,” says Muir.

“The council takes pride in knowing that this was our endeavour, not Extendicare's, but ours, and we really did do a great job.”