St. Michael's Centre has been helping Burnaby residents for more than 30 years - and now, they're hoping that Burnaby residents will be able to help them as well.
The centre is in the process of raising the final $100,000 needed to build new therapeutic bathing rooms for its 138 residents.
The first $200,000 needed for the project is already in place, thanks to funding from Fraser Health, as well as private donors.
One of those donors, the Faccone family, recently donated $25,000 to the project.
Marco Faccone, a long-time Burnaby resident and businessman, lost both parents and an older brother to cancer.
The $25,000 donation was made in honour of his mother, Anna, who passed away at the care centre at the age of 53.
"My momo was a very private person - it meant a lot to my dad and our family that the care team at St. Michael's looked after her and her personal needs like bathing and maintained her dignity. We knew how important that was for her," said Faccone. "We are making this donation in her honour to show our appreciation and to help ensure that others receive the best possible care."
The three older bathing rooms for long-term care residents at St. Michael's Centre are in in need of major renovation, including the installation of therapeutic hydrosound tubs designed to help enhance wound healing and to protect skin.
Operations site leader Blake Armstrong says the renovation will provide residents with a home-like environment with modern safety features and up-to-date technology.
"We know that St. Michael's Centre has touched the lives of many people since the doors opened in 1981, and we hope that the Faccones' generosity will inspire other families to give."
The Tapestry Foundation for Health Care, which raises funds for St. Michael's Centre, is hoping to find donors for the final $100,000 needed. To find out more, or to make a donation, see www.tapestryfoundation. ca.
editorial@ burnabynow.com
