During my 12 years as state director for USDA Rural Development in Kentucky, I have had the privilege of breaking ground on many projects; from water and sewer infrastructure, to business development, to housing complexes and community-based projects. All have been notable and important projects for enhancing the quality of life and improving economic opportunities in rural Kentucky.
However, I recently participated in a ground breaking for an elder care facility that truly breaks new ground for enhancing the quality of life for future residents of this facility. The “Homeplace at Midway” is revolutionary in its design and function. The developer and operator, Christian Care Communities, a Christian-based non-profit based in Louisville, has brought this “unique living design” for independent living to Kentucky. Although the Green House® model was established a decade ago, it will be the first such assisted living center in Kentucky. In short order, the concept provides residents with the independence and versatility in carrying out their daily lives as if they were still at ‘home’.
The concept of the community is to provide four primary residences that will be ‘home’ for up to 12 residents per cottage. Two of the cottages will provide skilled nursing care for short-term rehabilitation or long-term care, another for individuals with Alzheimer’s or dementia; and one cottage for assisted living residents who need periodic assistance with daily living activities. In the USDA announcement of funding in September 2012 for the new Green House® community, Dr. Keith Knapp, president and chief executive officer of Christian Care Communities said, “Our vision is to create small households of care.” Noting that The Homeplace at Midway will be a radical departure from traditional nursing homes and assisted living facilities, Dr. Knapp added, “It will mean that Older Adults can receive the highest quality medical care and personal support in daily living activities without feeling their lives are being disrupted or overtaken.” ‘Homeplace at Midway’ will provide students of Midway College’s nursing program with a place to gain practicable nursing skills in a real-time environment.
A truly outstanding element of this project is the people and organizations who have provided the financial commitment to allow the ‘The Homeplace at Midway’ to become reality. Over 500 individuals, several foundations, and corporate organizations partnered with the City of Midway, the Commonwealth of Kentucky, and USDA Rural Development in providing the funding.
As I walked the grounds before the groundbreaking, I can say that it is a beautiful and peaceful location. It will be a great ‘place to call home’ for residents of Woodford County and neighboring communities.
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