Emily Plihal
Local Journalism
Initiative Reporter
Over 150 people attended Heart River Housing’s grand opening of its newest seniors’ residence in Falher on Sept. 25.
The new 20-unit seniors’ housing facility called Château Beauséjour is connected to the Villa Beauséjour and will help to provide new accommodations to seniors in the region.
Château Beauséjour features 20 self-contained suites, offering both one- and two-bedroom options. Each unit is equipped with a washer, dryer, dishwasher, fridge, and stove to support independent living.
Residents also have access to optional services such as meal programs and housekeeping, available upon request for an additional monthly fee. For those with vehicles, covered parking is available at an added cost, providing extra comfort.
“We celebrate the grand opening of our extended addition to the Villa, Château Beauséjour,” Heart River Housing board chair Myrna Lanctot says.
“This occasion marks more than the completion of a building, it marks the accumulation of years of vision, planning and dedication. This project has been years in the making; it reflects the hard work of many hands.”
Lanctot adds the design and dream was sculpted by both past and present staff, each contributing their expertise and care to ensure the space would truly serve the community.
“With addition of 20 new suites, we’ve created not just new spaces, but opportunity for comfort, dignity, and for a life well lived,” says Lanctot.
“The board recognized the need to ensure that our seniors have real options to stay, live, thrive right here at home. That’s why we chose to invest in enhanced suite, not only in Falher, but in High Prairie, and soon Valleyview will follow.”
The grand opening event included a ribbon cutting, a priest’s blessings, and a tour of the new facility, live music, along with a catered lunch for community members.
“These suites are more than rooms, they are homes,” says Lanctot.
“Homes where stories will unfold, friendships will blossom, and lives will flourish. Just as important as the suites themselves, there is a common space designed for the new residents and for the villa residents to gather and share stories and experiences,” she adds.
Total cost of the project was $13.1 million and funded through Canada Mortgage and Housing co-investment loan, HRH capital reserves, community donations and a $1.5 million grant from Government of Alberta.
“The need for enhanced seniors’ housing in the region has been evident for some time,” explains Lanctot.
“With over 50 applicants before construction was even completed, it was clear that demand far exceeded available space. Château Beauséjour helps address this gap and ensures that seniors have access to dignified, independent living options.”
