New chapter begins with grand opening of peopleCare Tavistock
Spirits were high as peopleCare celebrated the official grand opening of its newly rebuilt long-term care home in Tavistock, a vibrant, modern space that will serve the seniors of this close-knit community for decades to come. The festivities marked a new chapter for the home where the organization’s commitment to care began almost six decades ago.
peopleCare’s deep roots in Tavistock began in the 1960s with LeRoy and Ruth Schlegel, who always looked out for those in need. Their daughter and son-in-law, Mary and O’Derald Gingerich shared their affinity for community-minded care, a family legacy that now lives on through peopleCare’s Chairman and CEO Brent Gingerich.
“My parents and other family members helped develop and operate the original long-term care home in the 1970s and I have great memories of learning what it means to care, right here in Tavistock,” says Gingerich. “Today, as third-generation owners, my wife Heather and I are proud to lead peopleCare through a time of growth, remaining focused on our mission to create beautiful communities for life enriching experiences.”
Redeveloping Tavistock was a long-held dream for the Gingerichs, replacing the “C” class building that previously stood next door. Existing residents made the move late last year followed by new resident admissions through winter and spring. Read peopleCare welcomes residents and staff to new home
“The opening of this home marks a significant milestone in our government’s plan to protect Ontario seniors and increase access to world-class health care right here in Oxford County,” said Dawn Gallagher Murphy, Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister of Long-Term Care. “Now that construction is complete, 128 residents have a safe and modern place to call home.”
Building new LTC homes in Ontario requires collaboration, and peopleCare has a long list of partners to warmly thank, including the Ontario government, MPP Hardeman and Mayor Phil Schaefer. We also thank SRM Architects, our construction partner Vandel (another leading family-owned business), CMLS, Canada Life and BDO.
Gingerich also expressed kudos to peopleCare’s senior team and development team, with special thanks to Tavistock’s home leadership team, led by Executive Director Deb, for “creating a home where residents feel cared for and families feel at ease.”
The home’s Executive Director Deb Wettlaufer reflected on what the day meant to her personally. “I grew up in the old building, helping my mom in the kitchen when I was just a kid,” she shared. “While it’s bittersweet leaving behind those memories, this new home is bright, beautiful and welcoming. Ready to make new memories for the next generation.”
MPP Ernie Hardeman, who played a key role in bringing these beds to his riding, was recognized at the event by the Resident Council for his 30 years serving Oxford County. He extended his congratulations, noting the new home represents a significant investment in the health and well-being of local seniors.
“It’s a testament to peopleCare’s commitment to quality care and to building strong, supportive communities,” added Hardeman. “It will ensure residents in Tavistock and surrounding areas have access to the comfort, dignity, and care they deserve for generations to come.”
Following the formal speeches and ribbon-cutting, MPP Hardeman hosted friends, neighbours, residents and staff in the beautiful new courtyard for his annual strawberry social.
As Ontario’s population grows and ages, additional long-term care capacity is more urgently needed than ever. The redevelopment of peopleCare Tavistock enables peopleCare to care for more people, and support families who want the best for their loved ones. It also creates good jobs in the community, including opportunities for internationally educated nurses now working as personal support workers (PSW) while building new lives for themselves and their families in Canada. Tavistock LTC Home Hires International Nurses: Wilmot-Tavistock Gazette
With its smaller, home-like living areas, large common spaces and dedicated area for people living with dementia, the new peopleCare Tavistock was designed for personalized, life-enriching experiences. All home areas include bright shared spaces, private or semi-private rooms and access to a landscaped central courtyard. We’ve also included the Gingerich Family Stay-Over Suite, which is peopleCare’s way of expressing our support, “from our family to yours.”
Throughout the home, thoughtful design elements reflect peopleCare’s connection to the community, such as the gallery wall and local images that honour Tavistock’s rich history. Owner Heather and the Tavistock team worked closely with the historical society to bring these touches to life for our residents to enjoy and feel at home.
East Zorra-Tavistock Mayor Phil Schaefer, who met his wife decades ago when she worked at the original Tavistock home, offered a touching tribute to the place that has brought people together over the years, “If love and caring are elements of a home, then 128 residents have come home.”
peopleCare looks forward to many more years of caring, partnership, innovation and heartfelt moments in this wonderful community.
Learn more
Read the Ontario government’s news release Ontario Celebrates the Opening of Tavistock Long-Term Care Home
Working with our municipal and provincial partners to get new LTC Homes built and opened quickly, as part of planned communities of care, is peopleCare’s focus in the next four years. Stay up-to-date on our progress by visiting Designing Vibrant Communities
Read the announcement of the new bed award A new beginning for the peopleCare home where it all began
