With a turn of the shovels something that will benefit many west Oahu residents is underway.
It’s a new Ewa facility that addresses the fastest growing state elderly population in the nation.
What’s more, said Jerry Correa of the St. Francis Healthcare System, is that it provides much more than just adult day care.
"The intergenerational center fits the vision of the sisters perfect: it helps the children of this side as well as the seniors and the caregivers."
It’s a win-win project to be built and run by the St. Francis Healthcare System.
The system sold it’s two hospitals five years ago, but didn’t get out of the care business.
"We’ve refocused on more direct care then the conglomorous that acute care has become," said St. Francis Sister Patricia Burkard.
Sister Burkard says this new adult day care/preschool fits the Franciscan philosophy perfectly…
"The way that we are going to assist their families in helping them keep their loved ones at home who are elderly, but at the same time know that when they are here they’re in a safe place and a nurturing place."
When the new facility is built it will be able to serve up to 42 adults a day, and educate 92 youngsters.
Realizing this dream will come about with the help of private money and millions in grants from both the state and city.
On the aging elderly, the governor said, "people 65 and older (are) bigger in numbers and living longer. This combination, intergenerational project it’s so right on the mark. (it’s) so focused in on what Hawaii needs to concentrate it’s attention upon."
The new facility is expected to be open for business by next summer.
See the original article at: KHON2 Local News
