Chicopee Savings Bank Charitable Foundation provides $100,000 grant for Phase II of Project Transformation at JGS Lifecare
Phase II of the Project Transformation campaign at JGS Lifecare took another big step forward, thanks to a $100,000 grant from the Chicopee Savings Bank Charitable Foundation. Foundation President Bill Wagner says their mission of supporting charitable causes that contribute to and enhance quality of life has been a primary goal since the Foundation’s inception in 2006. A particular focus is supporting programs for youth and elderly services.
“JGS has a history exceeding 100 years of providing exceptional care for the elderly in our communities,” said Wagner. “Over the years, we have witnessed JGS continually transform itself to respond to the changing needs of the elderly.”
The purpose of the Project Transformation campaign is to enhance, build and expand JGS Lifecare’s services and facilities to improve health outcomes, and enhance residents’ dignity, independence and quality of life.
Phase I of the campaign included the December 2016 opening of the new Sosin Center for Rehabilitation, featuring The Green House® model of care (known generically as the “small house” model), as well as renovations to Ruth’s House. Phase II will include renovations to modernize two 40-bed wings of the Leavitt Family Jewish Home and transform them into several small houses, as well as other significant updates to the entire campus.
“The new model represents a revolutionary change from the traditional approach,” said Martin W. Baicker, president and CEO, JGS Lifecare. “We are seeking to deinstitutionalize the care of our community’s elders by providing services in groups of 12 residents in an environment that feels like home.”
Baicker stressed that a project of this scope requires widespread community support. “We are grateful to Chicopee Savings Bank for supporting our vision and helping us raise care of our elders to a whole new level,” he said.
Wagner said, “We are extremely honored to be able to assist JGS Lifecare with its newest endeavor to expand and enhance its facilities to further enhance the lives of elderly residing within our communities who suffer from dementia and other aging related health risks.”
Those interested in touring the Sosin Center or learning more about Project Transformation should contact Susan Kimball Halpern, vice president of Philanthropy at 413-567-3949 ext. 1612 or shalpern@JGSLifecare.org.
