The Board of Directors of The Pines Retirement Home is seeking support from any individuals, community groups and businesses that would consider ongoing contributions to this cause.
The Pines Retirement Home sustained significant losses as a result of Hurricane Ivan in September.
Areas of the building were flooded in excess of four feet of water, and much of the roof was either blown off or severely damaged.
Considerable damage to the exterior and interior of the building ensued, requiring the replacement of sheetrock, air-conditioning and electrical systems.
Medical equipment and supplies, furniture and appliances were also damaged.
The Pines re-opened its doors residents in December 2004 following the renovation of the front section of the building.
‘Whereas The Pines previously had five wings of resident rooms, only two wings are available for residents since the majority of the building has not been repaired. Rooms that accommodated one resident are now being shared among three residents,’ said Manager Sue Nicholson.
‘Because all of the hospital beds were destroyed by flood water, residents were required to sleep on cots for some time. Similarly, whereas residents were seated in recliners prior to the hurricane, they now sit in plastic patio chairs in the sitting room.
‘Because furniture for resident rooms was severely damaged, we have had to use donated milk crates to store resident clothing and personal belongings,’ she said.
Nonetheless, progress is being made daily. The sitting room/dining room was restored by the Ministers’ Association and re-opened in March, and residents can once again enjoy social activities and visits from members of the community.
Thanks to a donation from the Rotary Club and HSBC, The Pines was able to purchase new hospital beds and furniture for resident rooms.
First Caribbean sponsored renovations to the kitchen, and Bank of America, in conjunction with the Stauffer Foundation, donated funds to convert a new bus, making it wheelchair accessible.
‘Furthermore, The Pines is extremely grateful to the Maples and Calder Foundation for their generous donation of US$1 million towards future building improvements and upgrades,’ said Ms Nicholson.
Despite support from many individuals and companies both within the Cayman Islands and nationally, The Pines requires funds on an ongoing basis not only to restore its building, but to upgrade the facility so that it meets the needs of the residents now and in the future, she said.
‘Given the upgrades that are required, it is estimated that funds in excess of $3 million are required. Funds are urgently required to support the operating budget and ongoing needs so that residents continue to receive the quality of care and conditions that they truly deserve,’ said Ms Nicholson.
The Board of Directors thanked its many supporters, noting without their assistance, the rebuilding efforts would not have progressed to where they are today.
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