July 31, 2025, AILSA CRAIG – Craigwiel Gardens marked a construction milestone with a beam signing event today, celebrated by residents, donors, staff, Board members, community partners and politicians. The new $38.5 million two-storey building will replace the existing 83-bed Craigholme with a state-of-the-art 96-bed long-term-care home. The project is on time and on budget.
“The progress we have made since our groundbreaking in mid-December last year is incredible,” said Jennifer Gillies, Board member. “This wouldn’t be possible without the support of our amazing community which donated nearly $1.6 million against the initial $1.25 million goal.”
“When the new home opens in September 2026, it will help relieve the wait list and ensure the community has access to comfortable spaces and amenities as well as excellent care, close to home,” said Elaine Shantz, President and CEO. “It has taken incredible teamwork and amazing support from the community and our partners, with support from the Ministry of LTC’s Construction Funding Subsidy top-up. This home will feature three 32-bed resident home areas, a beautiful interior courtyard, dedicated and purpose-built amenities and spaces for programs, activities and more. It will be a beautiful addition to this community.”
“This event also helps us celebrate our 75th anniversary,” said Shantz. “The beam reminds us of the profound impact Craigholme and Craigwiel Gardens has had on our community and that we will be here, supporting this community, for decades to come.”
From left to right: North Middlesex Mayor and Middlesex Warden, Brian Ropp; Thomas Howell, SRM Architects; Darrell Gerritts, D. Grant Construction; Jennifer Gillies, Board member; Elaine Shantz, President and CEO, Craigwiel Gardens; Arlene Morell, representing Lambton-Kent-Middlesex MPP Steve Pinsonneault; Carolyn Tripp, CAO, North Middlesex Municipality; and Sarah Campbell, Executive Director, Craigwiel Gardens.
Adding to the celebration, Arlene Morell, representing MPP Steve Pinsonneault’s riding of Lambton-Kent-Middlesex, presented Elaine Shantz with a certificate congratulating Craigwiel Gardens on its 75th anniversary.
From left to right:
Jennifer Gillies, Board member; Elaine Shantz, President and CEO, Craigwiel Gardens; Arlene Morell, representing Lambton-Kent-Middlesex MPP Steve Pinsonneault; and Sarah Campbell, Executive Director, Craigwiel Gardens.