It took more than 14 months and around ten million dollars, but the big day arrived. Promptly at 10 a.m. on August 13, the first residents of the Personal Care Facilities in the new building at the Epworth Manor arrived.
Assisted by friends, family, and staff, they first met in the Chapel as part of the first day activities planned by Barb McCloskey, Personal Care Activities Coordinator. Other activities included music in the Chapel by Richard Merryman, a box lunch, moving day bingo, and flowers to brighten the new suites. While enjoying these activities, professional movers and relatives were bringing belongings to the rooms that the residents had preselected.
Although the Grand Opening, Dedication, and Open House are not scheduled until October, three residents
new to Epworth will soon join them in the Personal Care Facility. As of August 12, only five suites were
available for new residents. At 463 square feet, there is plenty of room for the residents to feel at home.
One resident even has a baby grand piano in her suite.
The staff had made their move into their new offices last Monday to allow for “settling in time” before the residents arrived. The caring staff made sure no resident went through the moving experience alone, and were available to help in any way needed.
Andrea Young, Marketing Director, also had a dessert reception scheduled for Thursday, August 15, to allow a sneak peek at the apartment facilities at Epworth Manor.
Four of the ten apartments are set up for tenants with disabilities, and all include a stove, refrigerator, washer, and dryer. Depending upon the size, the apartments range from 747 to 927 square feet. One of the apartments has already been rented.
Also, opening in a couple months is the Memory Support Neighborhood; a twelve bed-secured wing for those in the early stages of dementia.
Epworth Manor has approximately 150 employees, making it the second largest employer in Tyrone. The building is tastefully decorated, with chairs and curio cabinets in the halls to provide a homey touch. It would be well worth the time to visit during the open house, as this facility is something Tyrone should be very proud of!
