Client Profile: Bruyère Continuing Care
Since 1993, Bruyère Continuing Care (Bruyère) has been caring for seniors and people living with chronic illnesses throughout the Ottawa community. Through its facilities, Bruyère provides a wide range of living accommodations and healthcare services that strive to bridge the gap between independent living and long-term care.
The Project: Bruyère Village
In 2009, Bruyère proposed to expand its amenities by constructing four new housing complexes adjacent to its Saint Louis Residence, an existing long-term care home situated in Ottawa. Once complete, the Bruyère Village would provide affordable housing and assisted-living units for seniors aged 60 and above. Integrated with the Saint Louis Residence, the expansion would create a seniors’ village that would offer a cohesive and comprehensive continuing-care community for its residents.
Financing the Project
Bruyère was able to raise money for the project through fundraising campaigns and generous donations. Additional funds were granted by the Government of Ontario, including the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing. Still, funding efforts fell short of the project’s estimated $60.4 million cost.
In 2010, Bruyère partnered with Infrastructure Ontario, securing a 40-year loan for $54.3 million.
Housing for the Future
Completed in 2014, Bruyère Village now provides 227 residential units, including single and double bedroom variations as well as co-housing cluster accommodations. All residences are wheelchair- accessible and equipped with elevators. The buildings feature shared social spaces, secured entry lobbies, storage lockers, and access to internet, phone, television, and mail services.
With the seniors’ population of Ottawa on the rise, the completed Bruyère Village provides much needed housing and healthcare services, creating a safe and accessible community for generations to come.
The new Bruyère Village will feature:
- Walking paths
- Exterior parking
- Library, phapel and cafeteria
- Arts and crafts, fitness and games room
- Multi-purpose room with kitchen
- Hospitality suite
- Beauty salon and retail services
- Physiotherapy office
To learn more about our client, please visit their website at www.bruyere.org/village.