StratfordNatalia Kusendova-Bashta, Minister of Long-Term Care (centre at podium) was joined by other dignitaries for a groundbreaking ceremony for peopleCare's new Stratford facility that will house 288 long-term care beds. Also pictured is Stratford Mayor Martin Ritsma (far left) and Perth-Wellingtonh MPP Matthew Rae. July 17, 2025 (Photo courtesy of Minister Kusendova-Bashta via "X")
Midwestern

Ground breaking ceremony held for new long-term care facility in Stratford

A ground breaking was held this week for a new long-term care facility in Stratford that will eventually house 288 beds.

Perth-Wellington MPP Matthew Rae joined Minister of Long-Term Care Natalia Kusendova-Bashta for the ceremony to mark the start of construction of peopleCare Stratford’s new build on July 17.

The facility will include nine Resident Home Areas (RHAs), each creating a more intimate and familiar living space for up to 32 residents.

Initially, the new facility was approved for 160 beds, but it later got approval for 128 more beds. Residents are expected to move into peopleCare Stratford's new long-term care home in 2027.

"It is great to welcome peopleCare back to Stratford and celebrate the groundbreaking of their new 288 Long Term Care bed home," said Rae. "Our seniors helped build our province and country, and our provincial government will be there to support them in their golden years. This redevelopment will ensure that more of our seniors have access to care close to home."

"Our government has a plan to improve long-term care and a key part of that plan is building modern, safe and comfortable homes," said Kusendova-Bashta. "Today marks a significant milestone for the community of Stratford. When construction is complete, 288 residents will have a modern, comfortable place to call home."

"I am pleased with the wonderful progress being made on this continuum of care facility," said Martin Ritsma, Mayor of the City of Stratford. "The residents of Stratford continually remind me of the need for quality housing for our seniors, along with the onsite care needed to serve the unique needs of each resident. This type of partnership allows us to address housing needs in our community and reflects the City’s strategic priorities and objectives."

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