Gilmore Community Hub welcomes neighbours at fall open house

Residents gathered Tuesday for the first fall open house at the Gilmore Community Hub, a new space designed to bring health, recreation and social programs together under one roof.

The free public event at 60 King Street offered tours, activities and information about the services now available to residents across Fort Erie and South Niagara. Staff from Niagara Region’s Community Services were on hand to explain programs and answer questions about the new facility, which connects directly to Gilmore Lodge long-term care home.

The one-storey hub features an exercise room, physiotherapy area, café seating, meeting spaces and a program kitchen.

Beth Plato-Giles, administrator of seniors community programs, told Fort Erie Radio the need for services has increased in the past two years, particularly among seniors who want to stay in their homes longer and families seeking respite care.

“We’re listening to what people in Fort Erie are asking for. Our adult day program just shifted to a full-day format because families wanted more respite and clients wanted more time to enjoy socialization. The community is changing, and we’re changing with it,” said Plato-Giles.

The community hub is home to the Niagara South Health and Wellness Program, which partners with health and education providers such as Hotel Dieu Shaver, March of Dimes Canada, Niagara College and Niagara Region Seniors’ Community Programs to support older adults through rehabilitation and wellness education.

“It’s important that people know we’re here and that our doors are open. We want to partner with our community and provide the services that are needed in Fort Erie. If we’re not the provider, we want to be the connection to help people find what they need,” said Plato-Giles.

The hub’s creation followed years of consultation with seniors and residents who wanted more local options for wellness and connection. The project was part of an $86-million redevelopment that also delivered the new Gilmore Lodge, which provides long-term care for 160 residents in small neighbourhood settings named after local beaches.

Other offerings include adult day programs, fall-prevention classes, massage and blood-pressure clinics and community workshops on topics such as nutrition and digital safety. EarlyON Child and Family Centre has also opened on site earlier this year, providing free drop-in activities for children up to six years old and their caregivers.

“We’re open to all members of the community. We’re not solely here to serve residents of long-term care. We’re here for older adults and children through our programs,” said Plato-Giles.

Residents interested in upcoming programs or facility tours can contact the Gilmore Community Hub directly or visit the Niagara Region website for more information.

Stay Informed

Events, offers, contests, and breaking news, all delivered straight to your inbox.

Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form.

Subscribe