peopleCare Tavistock LTC residents and staff move into new home

peopleCare Tavistock LTC residents were on the move at the end of October, into their brand-new 128-bed home in the wonderful community where peopleCare began caring for local seniors decades ago.

Spirits were high, and the weather cooperated for the short walk across the property. Cheers, hugs and a few happy tears marked the day as residents received a warm welcome from our senior team, staff, family, and friends—setting the tone for this exciting new chapter in the home’s history.

Since opening its doors in 1968, the home has been an integral part of the community, earning an outstanding reputation and benefiting from the unwavering support of families, volunteers, students, and local businesses.

Brent Gingerich’s grandparents, LeRoy and Ruth Schlegel, founded peopleCare in 1967 in an old schoolhouse built in the 1800s, inspired by their commitment to helping those in need. His parents, O’Derald and Mary Gingerich, carried on their legacy, leading the first home and providing care with the same family values and dedication to excellence that continue to define the organization today.

As an older “C” home, redeveloping Tavistock was a long-standing priority for peopleCare. We collaborated closely with the County, Town, and local health partners, including the Oxford Ontario Health Team, to explore opportunities to expand seniors’ services. We were thrilled to receive the necessary licenses and approvals from the Ministry of Long-Term Care several years ago, and enthusiasm for the redevelopment of Tavistock LTC has only grown since.

Move-in day was a true family affair, with multiple generations of the Gingerich family, staff from other peopleCare homes and the Tavistock team coming together to welcome residents. Community special guests included East Zorra-Tavistock Mayor Phil Schaefer and Ontario Association of Residents’ Councils Executive Director Dee Tripp.

“The Township and Oxford County have always been hugely supportive of our organization and our long-term care home in Tavistock,” noted peopleCare President Megan Allen-Lamb. “We are grateful to our MPP Ernie Hardeman and Mayor Schaefer for their role in helping us redevelop this home to meet the needs of local seniors in Tavistock and Oxford.”

Mayor Schaefer shared his appreciation for being part of the welcoming committee. “East Zorra-Tavistock is honoured to have been part of the peopleCare story for over 60 years. This beautiful new, larger LTC home is a testament to collaboration and will serve residents and the broader community for years to come.”

In total, just over 80 residents made the move from the old building adjacent to the new home. The team is now working hard to support nearly 50 new residents as they transition into their new LTC home by the end of the year. With an existing waitlist of over 100, the 28 additional beds will make a meaningful difference for local seniors needing care and services. To support this growth, we’ve also welcomed more caring staff, including Internationally Educated Nurses. You can read more about them in the Wilmot-Tavistock Gazette.

peopleCare plans to host an open house for the community in the new year and a formal grand opening in the spring, once all residents have moved into their beautiful new home.

A huge thanks to our dedicated staff, supportive families, and everyone who fostered the community spirit and sense of belonging we strive for in every peopleCare home. Together, we’re creating vibrant, people-centred communities focused on life-enriching experiences.