ontariofinnishresthomeassociation

April 29, 2026 - Lottery Winner

Wed, 29 Apr 2026 20:27:09 GMT

The body content of your post goes here. To edit this text, click on it and delete this default text and start typing your own or paste your own from a different source.

April 15, 2026 - Lottery Winner

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 18:38:34 GMT

April 1, 2026 - Lottery Winner

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 14:40:48 GMT

March 18, 2026- Lottery Winner

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 12:51:48 GMT

March 4, 2026 - Lottery Winner

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 15:51:54 GMT

November 26,2025 - Lottery Winner

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 20:36:17 GMT

November 12, 2025 - Lottery Winner

Wed, 12 Nov 2025 20:41:03 GMT

October 29,2025 - Lottery Winner

Wed, 29 Oct 2025 19:19:56 GMT

October 15,2025 Lottery Winner

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 19:35:10 GMT

October 1, 2025 - Lottery Winner

Thu, 02 Oct 2025 14:30:25 GMT

September 17, 2025 - Lottery Winner

Wed, 17 Sep 2025 18:58:22 GMT

This is a subtitle for your new post

The body content of your post goes here. To edit this text, click on it and delete this default text and start typing your own or paste your own from a different source.

September 3,2025 - Lottery Winner

Thu, 04 Sep 2025 16:55:04 GMT

August 20, 2025- Lottery Winner

Wed, 20 Aug 2025 18:58:17 GMT

August 6, 2025- Lottery Winner

Wed, 06 Aug 2025 19:40:49 GMT

July 23, 2025- Lottery Winner

mdaluz@theofra.org (Mariss Daluz) — Wed, 23 Jul 2025 19:17:46 GMT

July 9, 2025- Lottery Winner

mdaluz@theofra.org (Mariss Daluz) — Wed, 09 Jul 2025 19:06:30 GMT

June 25, 2025- Lottery Winner

mdaluz@theofra.org (Mariss Daluz) — Wed, 25 Jun 2025 19:42:45 GMT

June 11, 2025 - Lottery Winner

mdaluz@theofra.org (Mariss Daluz) — Wed, 11 Jun 2025 18:59:00 GMT

May 28, 2025- Lottery Winner

mdaluz@theofra.org (Mariss Daluz) — Wed, 28 May 2025 19:09:32 GMT

May 14, 2025- Lottery Winner

mdaluz@theofra.org (Mariss Daluz) — Wed, 14 May 2025 19:04:03 GMT

April 30, 2025 - Lottery Winner

mdaluz@theofra.org (Mariss Daluz) — Wed, 30 Apr 2025 19:25:57 GMT

April 16, 2025 - Lottery Winner

mdaluz@theofra.org (Mariss Daluz) — Wed, 16 Apr 2025 19:09:38 GMT

April 2, 2025 Lottery Winner

mdaluz@theofra.org (Mariss Daluz) — Wed, 02 Apr 2025 19:41:55 GMT

March 19,2025 Lottery Winner

mdaluz@theofra.org (Mariss Daluz) — Wed, 19 Mar 2025 19:07:31 GMT

March 5, 2025 - Lottery Winner

mdaluz@theofra.org (Mariss Daluz) — Wed, 05 Mar 2025 20:06:22 GMT

November 27. 2024 - Lottery Winner

mdaluz@theofra.org (Mariss Daluz) — Wed, 27 Nov 2024 20:26:37 GMT

November 13,2024 - Lottery Winner

mdaluz@theofra.org (Mariss Daluz) — Wed, 13 Nov 2024 19:59:41 GMT

October 30, 2024 - Lottery Winner

mdaluz@theofra.org (Mariss Daluz) — Wed, 30 Oct 2024 19:04:15 GMT

October 16 ,2024 - Lottery Winner

mdaluz@theofra.org (Mariss Daluz) — Wed, 16 Oct 2024 18:57:59 GMT

October 2, 2024 - Lottery Winner

mdaluz@theofra.org (Mariss Daluz) — Wed, 02 Oct 2024 19:05:01 GMT

September 18, 2024 - Lottery Winner

mdaluz@theofra.org (Mariss Daluz) — Wed, 18 Sep 2024 19:09:50 GMT

September 4, 2024 - Lottery Winner

mdaluz@theofra.org (Mariss Daluz) — Wed, 04 Sep 2024 19:21:34 GMT

August 21, 2024- Lottery Winner

mdaluz@theofra.org (Mariss Daluz) — Wed, 21 Aug 2024 18:58:11 GMT

August 7, 2024- Lottery Winner

mdaluz@theofra.org (Mariss Daluz) — Wed, 07 Aug 2024 19:09:44 GMT

July 24, 2024- Lottery Winner

mdaluz@theofra.org (Mariss Daluz) — Wed, 24 Jul 2024 20:03:25 GMT

July 10, 2024- Lottery Winner

mdaluz@theofra.org (Mariss Daluz) — Wed, 10 Jul 2024 20:11:58 GMT

June 26, 2024- Lottery Winner

mdaluz@theofra.org (Mariss Daluz) — Wed, 26 Jun 2024 18:59:24 GMT

June 12, 2024- Lottery Winner

mdaluz@theofra.org (Mariss Daluz) — Wed, 12 Jun 2024 20:07:45 GMT

May 29, 2024- Lottery Winner

mdaluz@theofra.org (Mariss Daluz) — Wed, 29 May 2024 19:39:39 GMT

May 15, 2024 - Lottery Winner

mdaluz@theofra.org (Mariss Daluz) — Thu, 16 May 2024 13:10:18 GMT

May 1, 2024 - Lottery Winner

mdaluz@theofra.org (Mariss Daluz) — Thu, 02 May 2024 12:45:05 GMT

April 17, 2024 - Lottery Winner

mdaluz@theofra.org (Mariss Daluz) — Wed, 17 Apr 2024 16:33:47 GMT

April 3, 2024 - Lottery Winner

mdaluz@theofra.org (Mariss Daluz) — Wed, 03 Apr 2024 19:43:12 GMT

March 20, 2024 - Lottery Winner

mdaluz@theofra.org (Mariss Daluz) — Mon, 25 Mar 2024 13:33:45 GMT

March 6, 2024 - Lottery Winner

mdaluz@theofra.org (Mariss Daluz) — Fri, 08 Mar 2024 19:18:50 GMT

October 4, 2023 - Lottery Winner

mdaluz@theofra.org (Mariss Daluz) — Thu, 05 Oct 2023 13:17:49 GMT

September 20, 2023 - Lottery Winner

mdaluz@theofra.org (Mariss Daluz) — Fri, 22 Sep 2023 14:00:14 GMT

September 6, 2023 - Lottery Winner

Thu, 07 Sep 2023 17:14:01 GMT

August 23, 2023 - Lottery Winner

Wed, 23 Aug 2023 19:17:15 GMT

August 9, 2023 - Lottery Winner

Wed, 09 Aug 2023 19:25:39 GMT

July 26, 2023 - Lottery Winner

Fri, 28 Jul 2023 15:36:07 GMT

July 12, 2023 - Lottery Winner

Mon, 17 Jul 2023 20:55:09 GMT

June 28, 2023 - Lottery Winner

Wed, 28 Jun 2023 20:17:11 GMT

June 14, 2023 - Lottery Winner

Wed, 28 Jun 2023 20:03:27 GMT

May 31, 2023 - Lottery winner

Wed, 31 May 2023 19:04:41 GMT

May 17, 2023 - Lottery Winner

Wed, 17 May 2023 20:38:29 GMT

May 3, 2023 - Lottery Winner

Wed, 03 May 2023 20:36:58 GMT

April 19, 2023 - Lottery Winner

Wed, 19 Apr 2023 20:18:28 GMT

April 5, 2023 - Lottery Winner

Thu, 06 Apr 2023 15:47:03 GMT

March 22, 2023 - Lottery Winner

Wed, 22 Mar 2023 20:17:10 GMT

March 8, 2023 - Lottery Winner

Wed, 08 Mar 2023 20:15:14 GMT

February 22, 2023 - Lottery Winner

Fri, 24 Feb 2023 15:49:26 GMT

February 8, 2023 - Lottery Winner

Fri, 24 Feb 2023 15:34:12 GMT

January 25, 2023 - Lottery Winner

Wed, 25 Jan 2023 17:32:55 GMT

January 11, 2023 - Lottery Winner

Wed, 11 Jan 2023 17:31:18 GMT

December 14, 2022 - Lottery Winner

Wed, 14 Dec 2022 17:28:43 GMT

November 30, 2022 - Lottery Winner

Wed, 30 Nov 2022 16:28:44 GMT

November 2, 2022 - Lottery Winner

Thu, 03 Nov 2022 14:43:05 GMT

October 19, 2022 - Lottery Winner

Wed, 19 Oct 2022 20:21:26 GMT

October 5, 2022 - Lottery Winner

Thu, 06 Oct 2022 14:36:48 GMT

September 21, 2022 - Lottery Winner

Thu, 06 Oct 2022 14:34:34 GMT

September 7, 2022 - Lootery Winner

Thu, 06 Oct 2022 14:31:24 GMT

August 24, 2022 - Lottery Winner

Thu, 06 Oct 2022 14:27:18 GMT

August 10, 2022 - Lottery Winner

Mon, 15 Aug 2022 15:36:10 GMT

July 27, 2022 - Lottery Winner

Wed, 27 Jul 2022 19:24:02 GMT

July 13, 2022 - Lottery Winner

Wed, 13 Jul 2022 19:26:32 GMT

June 29. 2022 - Lottery Winner

Mon, 04 Jul 2022 14:00:28 GMT

June 15, 2022 - Lottery Winner

Mon, 04 Jul 2022 13:58:13 GMT

June 1, 2022 - Lottery Winner

Wed, 01 Jun 2022 18:44:55 GMT

May 18, 2022 - Lottery Winner

Wed, 18 May 2022 19:05:29 GMT

May 4, 2022 - Lottery Winner

Wed, 04 May 2022 20:07:40 GMT

April 20, 2022 - Lottery Winner

Wed, 20 Apr 2022 19:31:19 GMT

April 6, 2022 - Lottery Winner

Thu, 07 Apr 2022 13:45:11 GMT

March 23, 2022 - Lottery Winner

Thu, 07 Apr 2022 13:38:27 GMT

February 23, 2022 - Lottery Winner

Thu, 24 Feb 2022 14:18:04 GMT

February 9, 2022 - Lottery Winner

Wed, 09 Feb 2022 21:05:31 GMT

January 26, 2022 - Lottery Winner

Wed, 26 Jan 2022 20:01:18 GMT

January 12, 2022 - Lottery Winner

Wed, 12 Jan 2022 21:15:00 GMT

Lottery Winner - December 29, 2021

Tue, 04 Jan 2022 16:17:05 GMT

December 15, 2021 - Lottery Winner

Thu, 16 Dec 2021 14:12:24 GMT

December 1, 2021 - Lottery Winner

Thu, 16 Dec 2021 14:10:20 GMT

November 17, 2021 - Lottery Winner

Wed, 17 Nov 2021 20:28:44 GMT

November 3, 2021 - Lottery Winner

Wed, 17 Nov 2021 20:26:41 GMT

October 20, 2021 - Lottery Winner

Thu, 21 Oct 2021 12:50:23 GMT

October 6, 2021 - Lottery Winner

Thu, 07 Oct 2021 20:12:25 GMT

September 22, 2021 - Lottery Winner

Wed, 22 Sep 2021 20:17:10 GMT

September 8, 2021 - Lootery Winner

Wed, 22 Sep 2021 20:15:54 GMT

August 25, 2021 - Lottery Winner

Wed, 25 Aug 2021 20:24:37 GMT

August 11, 2021 - Lottery Winner

Fri, 13 Aug 2021 13:58:31 GMT

2021 Annual General Meeting

monique@jeronamo.ca (Jeremy Henderson) — Thu, 29 Jul 2021 19:34:40 GMT

Tuesday, October 26, 2021

Time: 6:30pm

Location: 721 North St., Suomi Eesti Maja - Kestitupa

R.S.V.P is required due to limited seating.

Only Active Members will be granted entry.

Please contact Margaret Gardner, Fund Development Coordinator to register.

Tel. (705) 945-9987 ext. 257 or mgardner@theofra.org

Masks are mandatory or entry will be denied.

Screeners will be at the door and all participants must show proof of vaccinations or a negative COVID test that is no more than 3 days old.

July 28, 2021 - Lottery Winner

Wed, 28 Jul 2021 13:51:36 GMT

July 14, 2021 - Lottery Winner

Mon, 26 Jul 2021 13:50:14 GMT

June 30, 2021 - Lottery Winner

Mon, 05 Jul 2021 16:39:54 GMT

June 16, 2021 - Lottery Winner

Thu, 17 Jun 2021 15:05:01 GMT

June 2, 2021 - Lottery Winner

Thu, 17 Jun 2021 15:03:04 GMT

May 5, 2021 - Lottery Winner

Wed, 05 May 2021 20:16:38 GMT

April 21, 2021 - Lottery Winner

Wed, 21 Apr 2021 18:44:04 GMT

April 7, 2021 - Lottery Winner

Wed, 14 Apr 2021 17:45:15 GMT

March 24, 2021 - Lottery Winner

Wed, 24 Mar 2021 19:40:15 GMT

March 10, 2021 - Lottery Winner

Wed, 10 Mar 2021 21:21:01 GMT

February 24, 2021 - Lottery Winner

Thu, 25 Feb 2021 18:38:17 GMT

February 10, 2021 - Lottery Winner

Thu, 11 Feb 2021 17:43:34 GMT

January 27, 2021 - Lottery Winner

Thu, 28 Jan 2021 21:26:12 GMT

January 13, 2021 - Lottery Winner

Fri, 15 Jan 2021 21:45:56 GMT

December 30, 2020 - Lottery Winner

Wed, 06 Jan 2021 18:37:00 GMT

December 16, 2020 - Lottery Winner

Wed, 16 Dec 2020 19:55:52 GMT

December 2, 2020 - Lottery Winner

Thu, 03 Dec 2020 15:09:09 GMT

November 18, 2020 - Lottery Winner

Fri, 20 Nov 2020 17:10:45 GMT

November 4, 2020 - Lottery Winner

Fri, 20 Nov 2020 17:08:44 GMT

October 21, 2020 - Lottery Winner

Thu, 22 Oct 2020 14:57:32 GMT

October 7, 2020 - Lottery Winner

Fri, 09 Oct 2020 17:45:32 GMT

September 23, 2020 - Lottery Winner

Wed, 23 Sep 2020 19:30:38 GMT

September 9, 2020 - Lottery Winner

Wed, 09 Sep 2020 19:51:47 GMT

August 26, 2020 - Lottery Winner

Mon, 31 Aug 2020 13:01:30 GMT

August 12, 2020 Lottery Winner

Wed, 12 Aug 2020 19:08:07 GMT

April 22, 2020- Lottery Winner

Fri, 24 Jul 2020 13:14:22 GMT

April 8, 2020 - Lottery Winner

Thu, 23 Jul 2020 00:00:00 GMT

March 25, 2020 - Lottery Winner

Thu, 26 Mar 2020 14:21:31 GMT

March 11, 2019 - Lottery Winner

Fri, 13 Mar 2020 13:45:14 GMT

February 26, 2020 - Lottery Winner

Fri, 13 Mar 2020 13:44:58 GMT

February 12, 2020 - Lottery Winner

Fri, 14 Feb 2020 15:12:06 GMT

January 29, 2020 - Lottery Winner

Fri, 14 Feb 2020 15:11:18 GMT

January 15, 2020 - Lottery Winner

Fri, 14 Feb 2020 15:09:51 GMT

January 3, 2020 - Lottery Winner

Fri, 14 Feb 2020 15:08:28 GMT

December 18, 2019 - Lottery Winner

Fri, 20 Dec 2019 21:04:53 GMT

December 4th, 2019 - Lottery Winner

Fri, 20 Dec 2019 21:03:53 GMT

November 20, 2019 - Lootery Winner

Fri, 20 Dec 2019 21:02:45 GMT

November 6, 2019 - Lottery Winner

Fri, 20 Dec 2019 21:01:33 GMT

October 13, 2019 - Lottery Winner

Fri, 01 Nov 2019 15:54:09 GMT

October 9, 2019 - Lottery Winner

Fri, 01 Nov 2019 15:30:24 GMT

October 9, 2019 - Lottery Winner

Thu, 17 Oct 2019 19:50:35 GMT

April 24, 2019 - Lottery Winner

Thu, 25 Apr 2019 20:48:53 GMT

April 10, 2019 - Lottery Winner

Thu, 11 Apr 2019 18:14:52 GMT

March 27, 2019 - Lottery Winner

Thu, 11 Apr 2019 18:14:16 GMT

March 13, 2019 - Lottery Winner

Thu, 11 Apr 2019 18:13:32 GMT

February 27, 2019 - Lottery Winner

Thu, 11 Apr 2019 18:12:15 GMT

February 13, 2019 - Lottery Winner

Thu, 11 Apr 2019 18:09:38 GMT

January 30, 2019 - Lottery Winner

Wed, 30 Jan 2019 00:00:00 GMT

2018 Christmas Raffle Winners

Mon, 21 Jan 2019 15:05:49 GMT

All proceeds from this draw will go towards a new wheelchair accessible bus for the residents of OFRA!

1st Prize: Handmade, fully furnished, Victorian Christmas Cottage Dollhouse | Pat Mcgrath #0754

2nd Prize: 24' x 36' Canvas Wrapped Original Photograph of a Grey White Owl | Heather Shaw #0717

3rd Prize: Hudson Bay Company 100% Wool Throw | Lesly Yungblut #0643

January 16, 2019 Lottery Winner

Wed, 16 Jan 2019 00:00:00 GMT

January 2, 2019 - Lottery Winner

Wed, 02 Jan 2019 00:00:00 GMT

December 19, 2018 - Lottery Winner

Wed, 19 Dec 2018 00:00:00 GMT

December 7, 2018 Christmas Raffle Winners

Fri, 07 Dec 2018 00:00:00 GMT

December 5, 2018 - Lottery Winner

Wed, 05 Dec 2018 00:00:00 GMT

November 21, 2018 - Lottery Winner

Wed, 21 Nov 2018 00:00:00 GMT

November 7, 2018 - Lottery Winner

Wed, 07 Nov 2018 00:00:00 GMT

October 24, 2018 - Lottery Winner

Wed, 24 Oct 2018 00:00:00 GMT

October 10, 2018 - Lottery Winner

Wed, 10 Oct 2018 00:00:00 GMT

April 25, 2018 - Lottery Winner

Wed, 25 Apr 2018 00:00:00 GMT

April 11, 2018 - Lottery Winner

Wed, 11 Apr 2018 00:00:00 GMT

March 28, 2018 - Lottery Winner

Wed, 28 Mar 2018 00:00:00 GMT

March 14, 2018 - Lottery Winner

Wed, 14 Mar 2018 00:00:00 GMT

February 28, 2018 - Lottery Winner

Wed, 28 Feb 2018 00:00:00 GMT

February 14, 2018 - Lottery Winner

Wed, 14 Feb 2018 00:00:00 GMT

January 31, 2018 - Lottery Winner

Wed, 31 Jan 2018 00:00:00 GMT

January 16, 2018 - Lottery Winner

Tue, 16 Jan 2018 00:00:00 GMT

January 3, 2018 - Lottery Winner

Wed, 03 Jan 2018 00:00:00 GMT

December 20, 2017 - Lottery Winner

Wed, 20 Dec 2017 00:00:00 GMT

December 6, 2017 - Lottery Winner

Wed, 06 Dec 2017 00:00:00 GMT

November 22, 2017 - Lottery Winner

Wed, 22 Nov 2017 00:00:00 GMT

November 8, 2017 - Lottery Winner

Wed, 08 Nov 2017 00:00:00 GMT

October 25, 2017 - Lottery Winner

Wed, 25 Oct 2017 00:00:00 GMT

October 11, 2017 - Lottery Winner

Wed, 11 Oct 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Harvest Fest Draw Tickets Available

Fri, 03 Jun 2016 00:00:00 GMT

The Ontario Finnish Resthome Association & Foundation Harvest Fest Draw & Event held on Friday, September 9th was a Tremendous Success!

Over the last 5 years, we have been actively fundraising in support of our Uusi Koti – New Home Campaign for Seniors Independent Living. At the end of November 2016 over 100 seniors will move in and make Uusi Koti their new home. To celebrate this amazing accomplishment, the OFRA Board of Directors and Foundation, led by the Board Chair, Todd Slotegraaf, set to go out with a bang, hosting an event with bigger and better prizes and giveaways as well as holding the largest raffle in OFRA history.

OFRA and our event committee were overwhelmed and touched with the amount of support from the community for both the event and draw. Over 225 businesses, staff members and volunteers worked endlessly, volunteering their time to help us sell our Harvest Fest Draw tickets. Ticket sales topped an astounding $75,000! All of the money raised from this draw and event will be used to purchase therapeutic and accessible equipment for the residents of OFRA.

The Harvest Fest Draw winners are:

1st Prize: 2016 Polaris Sportsman 570 ATV from Rivercity Motorsports or $6,000

Winner: Mike Chindamo – Ticket #1493

2nd Prize: 11ft Cedar Strip Canoe made by Ron Pellinen & 6 Kegs of Beer from Northern Superior Brewing Co.

Winner: Jordan Harrison – Ticket #4419

3rd Prize: 2017 Stealth Titan 6×12 Cargo Trailer from Woody’s Wheels or $2,400

Winner: Mike Makasoff – Ticket #2910

4th Prize: Fly-in-Fishing Trip for Four from Hawk Air or $1,800

Winner: Pat Nolan – Ticket #5029

“OFRA is extremely grateful for the support of the Sault Ste. Marie community. This was the largest draw ever in OFRA’s history and we are extremely happy that it was this well-received and a great success.” Todd Slotegraaf, Chair of the OFRA Board of Directors.

The Harvest Fest Event was just as successful, bringing in over $20,000, which included the dinner tickets, the penny raffle, the silent auction, 50/50 cash lottery, marketplace and in-kind donations.

The donation of all our prizes, goods and services as well as the marketplace items has been overwhelming. The Event proceeds will help furnish some of the common spaces in Uusi Koti.

Thank you to everyone for their support of OFRA’s residents and Uusi Koti – the latest addition to OFRA’s Homes with a Heart!

ORAZIETTI ANNOUNCES ONTARIO FINNISH RESTHOME ASSOCIATION RECIPIENT OF HEATHER CROWE AWARD

Tue, 31 May 2016 00:00:00 GMT

This is a subtitle for your new post

David Orazietti, MPP presents the Heather Crowe award to Helina McGrath, Executive Director of Care, The Ontario Finnish Resthome Association Sault Ste. Marie – Today at Queen’s Park, to mark the 10 year anniversary of the Smoke-Free Ontario Strategy, the Ontario Finnish Resthome Association (OFRA) was presented with the Heather Crowe
Award, in recognition of their work in promoting a smoke-free environment, announced David Orazietti
MPP.

“Our community is fortunate to have so many dedicated individuals who are committed to a Smoke-Free
Ontario, including the Ontario Finnish Resthome Association,” said Orazietti. “They are working tirelessly to
protect our residents and workers from the harmful effects of secondhand smoke, prevent youth from
starting to smoke, and helping current smokers quit. I am pleased to recognize their efforts today at
Queen’s Park.”

OFRA was selected as one of 10 recipients of the Heather Crowe Smoke-Free Ontario Award to recognize
individuals, groups and organizations that have championed tobacco control in Ontario over the past 10
years. Heather Crowe was a non-smoker who developed lung cancer after being exposed to second-hand
smoke in her workplace.

On May 31, 2013, OFRA implemented a 100 per cent smoke-free housing policy affecting all tenants who
signed a new lease date thereafter to demonstrate commitment in promoting a smoke-free, healthy living
environment for its staff, residents and visitors. As one of the first facilities to establish smoke-free multi-unit
housing in Algoma, their leadership raised the bar for other landlords across the district to consider
implementing the same measure. To further protect its employees and residents from the harmful effects of
second-hand smoke, the association developed a comprehensive, 100 per cent smoke-free property policy
on May 31, 2015, which inspired and enforced a cessation culture among its staff and residents who
smoked. The smoke-free property policy involved the collaborative effort of staff and community partners,
such as Algoma Public Health and Smoker’s Helpline, to offer resources, quit-smoking sessions and
support for those who smoked to help comply with the new policy. As a result, smoking rates have dropped
among staff who smoked and compliance has been high since the policy was first implemented.
“The Ontario-Finnish Resthome Association is extremely gratified to have been recognized for taking a
step toward a smoke-free Ontario in being awarded the prestigious Heather Crowe Award,” said Paul
Belair, Chief Executive Officer, OFRA. “The Board of Directors, management, staff and volunteers all wish
to congratulate tenants, residents and stakeholders alike for their efforts in achieving our now 100% smoke
free property.”

Ontario is celebrating the 10th anniversary of the Smoke-Free Ontario Strategy with the launch of a new
Cessation Action Plan that continues to support a smoke-free culture and will make it easier for Ontarians
to quit smoking.

What happens when a community’s youngest and oldest members meet?

Tue, 09 Feb 2016 00:00:00 GMT

They both benefit say the organizers of a program that pairs young students with ‘Grandbuddies’!!

Sylvia Wilding, 97, and Kevin Gray work with crafting material as part of an intergenerational visitation program between Kiwedin Public School and the Ontario Finnish Resthome. Jeff Klassen for SooToday

Click Here for the full story

2015 Christmas Raffle Results

Fri, 18 Dec 2015 00:00:00 GMT

2015 OFRA Christmas Raffle

The Ontario Finnish Resthome Association would like to thank all those who participated in the 2015 Christmas Draw. OFRA’s dedicated staff and volunteers helped to sell a total of 780 tickets and raised $3183 with 100% of the proceeds to go towards the residents of OFRA.

Winners
1st Prize: Locally Handmade, Fully Furnished Dollhouse

Valued at $2496.76 – Donated by Mr. & Mrs. Ireland

Winner: Warren Pihlaja

2nd Prize: Queen Size Alpaca Duvet

Valued at $660 – Donated by 1 Stop Alpaca Farms

Winner: Jane Thomas

3rd Prize: Limited Edition Doug Hook Print

Valued at $160 – Donated by Local Artist Doug Hook

Winner: Maxine Gardner

4th Prize: Handmade Finnish Style Rag Rug

Valued at $47 – Donated by Lena Skyum

Winner: David Lillie

Licence # M763520

OFRA & COMMUNITY FIRST COME TOGETHER FOR SENIORS

Wed, 30 Sep 2015 00:00:00 GMT

ONTARIO FINNISH RESTHOME ASSOCIATION & COMMUNITY FIRST COME TOGETHER FOR SENIORS

SAULT STE. MARIE, ON – September 23, 2015 – Recently there have been new sounds coming from the trees behind the Ontario Finnish Resthome. It’s the sound of construction and that time has finally arrived! On Tuesday September 8, 2015, The Ontario Finnish Resthome Association (OFRA) and The Community First Credit Union finalized a funding agreement that assisted in kicking off the construction of OFRA’s newest Independent Living Building, entitled Uusi Koti (translated to ‘New Home’ from Finnish).

“The Ontario Finnish Resthome Association (OFRA) is extremely grateful for the partnership of Sault Ste. Marie’s local financial institution Community First Credit Union.” says Paul Belair, CEO of the Ontario Finnish Resthome Association. “Uusi Koti: A New Home is the culmination of years of effort and planning on the part of OFRA members, Board, Staff and volunteers, and could not have been successful without their support. We look forward to our ongoing relationship with Community First in the future.”

The signing took place in Suomi Eesti Maja (SEM), OFRA’s current independent living building located at 721 North St. Built in 1976, SEM was the first of OFRA’s seniors’ complex. The current wait list for SEM is approximately eight years, demonstrating the need for this new building.

“The Ontario Finnish Resthome Association has been a valued member of Community First Credit Union since 2011, and we are thrilled to celebrate their growth and success,” says Brent Lamming, CEO of Community First Credit Union. “We take pride in partnering with local organizations who share the same vision and values that we do. The Ontario Finnish Resthome’s long-term goals for community support align with ours, and we both have the same hopes for a thriving and prosperous Sault Ste. Marie. We have been happy to provide support and resources to the Ontario Finnish Resthome over the past four years, and wish them great success in their latest endeavours. We look forward to continuing to strengthen our relationship, and assisting with their strategic vision moving forward in any way we can.”

OFRA is currently undertaking a number of initiatives to meet the growing need for housing for seniors in the Sault Ste. Marie and surrounding communities.

“OFRA has dedicated itself to providing excellent care for our seniors. It is with great pride that we continue our next phase of development and provide safe & affordable housing for seniors in Sault Ste. Marie for many years to come.”

OFRA would like to invite the citizens of Sault Ste. Marie to attend the Official Ground Breaking Ceremony for Uusi Koti: The New Seniors’ Independent Living building being constructed behind the three existing building consisting of 721, 723 & 725 North St. The event will be held on Wednesday, October 14th 2015 at 3pm.

Uusi Koti will be a new, state-of-the-art 9-story apartment complex will house 85 apartments, consisting of both one and two-bedroom standard and wheelchair accessible units. The total estimated cost for this project is $12.5 million. To assist with these construction costs, The Ontario Finnish Resthome Association and Foundation launched its Uusi Koti capital fundraising campaign with a goal of raising a minimum of $2 million for the Uusi Koti building.

“The Foundation would like to thank our community for their ongoing support of our capital campaign.” says Tarja Loewen, Chair of the Ontario Finnish Resthome Foundation. “The work continues as we are almost half-way to our goal.”

With no additional funding beyond its basic operating expenses, OFRA’s future plans require the support of donors and outside funding. There are many ways to give, including by mail, phone or in person, or online at www.ontariofinnishresthome.ca .

The Sault Theatre Workshop is donating to the Uusi Koti Campaign again this year!!

Tue, 29 Sep 2015 00:00:00 GMT

ALL PROCEEDS TO THE UUSI KOTI CAMPAIGN!

Based on a romantic comedy featuring Marlin Monroe “BUS STOP”.

“Cowboys Beauregard Decker (Don Murray) and Virgil Blessing (Arthur O’Connell) attend a rodeo in Phoenix, where Decker falls in love with beautiful cafe singer Cherie (Marilyn Monroe). He wants to take Cherie back to his native Montana and marry her, but she dreams of traveling to Hollywood and becoming famous. When she resists his advances, Decker forces Cherie onto the bus back to Montana with him, but, when the bus makes an unscheduled stop due to bad weather, the tables are turned.”

For tickets, please call Margaret at the Foundation Office (705-945-9987 ext. 257) or Meghan Rajala in the Administration Office (705-945-9987 ext. 240)

Show date is Tuesday October 27th at 8pm

Adults $25, Seniors $23 & Student $15

OFRA Bus Stop Poster

Breaking News

Tue, 25 Aug 2015 00:00:00 GMT

Now Leasing Units

Call Now Leasing Units for Uusi Koti
Coming in November 2016
Units starting at $1,310
For information call 705-945-9987 ext.237

Finnish Resthome expansion plans get Council support

Mon, 20 Jul 2015 00:00:00 GMT

With a clear need for more residences for seniors in Sault Ste. Marie, City Council gave its support (in three different motions passed at its regular meeting Monday) to the Ontario Finnish Resthome Association’s plans for expansion.

Ontario Finnish Resthome Association (OFRA) Chair Todd Slotegraaf presented the Association’s multi-faceted plan to Council, which, when complete, would add 171 new, additional senior accommodations to the community.

Total cost for the expansion plans is estimated to be $31 million.

The first phase will consist of a five-storey building consisting of 81 independent living units.

52 of those units would be one bedroom units, the other 29 two-bedroom units.

Slotegraaf said there are currently over 120 applicants on a waiting list for those new spaces.

The cost for the first phase comes in at $16.4 million, and Council agreed to OFRA’s request to provide a City staff report on the process and requirements to re-instate a municipal tax increment rebate program for new rental housing, previously provided for the downtown area.

That means municipal property taxes would be phased in on the new OFRA property over a specific period of time.

“It’s huge,” Slotegraaf told reporters.

“Without the reinstatement of that program we would not be able to build the independent living building,” though it is not yet known how much of a rebate OFRA will receive, nor for how long.

Council also agreed to approve, in accordance with the City’s Cycling Master Plan, construction of a Hub Trail spoke through the OFRA property, from North Street to the Fort Creek section of the Hub Trail, to provide a safe and scenic alternative to Second Line East for bicyclists.

OFRA supports the development of the spoke through the Resthome property.

City staff has been directed to work with OFRA in seeking funding sources for construction of the spoke.

In a third motion, Council gave its support to OFRA’s application to the Northeast LHIN for 50 long-term nursing home beds.

Slotegraaf explained that OFRA’s expansion plans consist not only of the 81 independent living units (with construction hopefully beginning in spring 2014), but also 50 long-term care nursing home beds (pending approval by the Northeast LHIN) and 40 assisted living units for high risk seniors.

A $4 million fundraising effort, Slotegraaf told reporters, is currently underway for the 81-unit independent living component, the total cost for that phase being $16 million. The remainder will be obtained through a loan. Approximately $340,000 has been raised so far.

Provincial funding for the other two phases is expected to be much easier to access.

OFRA states the increase in accommodations, added to its current number of independent living, assisted living and long-term care beds, will bring the total of OFRA senior homes and support services to 471.

Original SooToday Story

Kaihla returns home for fundraiser

Mon, 20 Jul 2015 00:00:00 GMT

The son of a late leader of the city’s Finnish community will emcee a fundraiser for a new building on the land his father helped develop for seniors.

Paul Kaihla is the son of the late Mauno Kaihla.

The senior Kaihla was chairman of Ontario Finnish Resthome Association and board adviser for 23 years.

Kaihla oversaw construction of an apartment building, assisted living centre and nursing home OFRA erected between 1976 and 1991 on 27 acres on North Street.

The nursing home, Mauno Kaihla Koti, is named in Kaihla’s honour.

Kaihla was awarded Sault Ste. Marie’s Medal of Merit in 1977.

Paul Kaihla has written for Maclean’s, Time and Canadian Business. He’s the co-author of Savage Messiah.

The Sir James Dunn collegiate graduate is now a senior writer with Business 2.0. His beats include the economy, national security and military and intelligence technologies.

OFRA wants to raise $4 million in the next two years towards the apartment building’s $16-million cost. The building, available to residents aged 60 and up, will include 52 one-bedroom units, 29 two-bedroom apartments and possibly 17 life-leases on the top floor.

Kaihla will emcee A Brush with Art, a fundraiser slated for April 20 at Algoma’s Water Tower Inn.

The evening includes a live auction, artist emporium and gourmet meal.

Tickets to the black tie event cost $100 and include a $25 tax receipt. Call 705-945-9987, ext. 257 to purchase.

Generous Gift from SalDan

Mon, 20 Jul 2015 00:00:00 GMT

ONTARIO FINNISH RESTHOME RECEIVES GENEROUS GIFT FROM SAL DAN

SAULT STE. MARIE, On – January 12, 2015 –TheOntario Finnish Resthome Association (OFRA) is thrilled to announce the generous donation of $11,000 from Sam Biasucci, president and owner of Sal Dan Development Limited. This gift will be used towards the Ontario Finnish Resthome Association’s new capital campaign, entitled Uusi Koti (translated to ‘new home’ from Finnish).

Present to accept the donation today was Todd Slotegraaf, Ontario Finnish Resthome Association Chair. “I cannot express how much the support of local businessmen, like Sam Biasucci means to myself and the OFRA. It is generous people like Sam that makes Sault Ste. Marie a great community,” said Slotegraaf.

The donation ceremony took place in the Kotitalo, one of OFRA’s three current buildings. Kotitalo is currently under renovations which are being constructed by the Sal Dan team. “The Ontario Finnish Resthome Association is a first-class service and care-provider for our elders,” says Biasucci. “We had the privilege of seeing this first hand during our presence on site. We were totally impressed with the professional, compassionate, caring and courteous service OFRA delivers to the current residents.” “We are happy to make this small contribution towards OFRA’s future improvements and will gladly commit to future contributions as we see the service they deliver a necessity for our seniors from all nationalities.”

Along with the Kotitalo renovations, OFRA is currently undertaking a number of initiatives for the growth and expansion of its services. The Uusi Koti campaign, officially titled Uusi Koti – A New Home: Independent Living for Seniors Campaign is OFRA’s most ambitious capital campaign to date. Currently, OFRA is home to over 300 residents in three buildings, but future growth is critical to meet the growing need for housing for seniors in the Sault Ste. Marie and surrounding communities. OFRA’s Board of Directors has responded to this need by taking the first step; the plan for growth by constructing a new seniors’ independent living apartment building. This new, five-story building will house 83 apartments, consisting of both one and two-bedroom units, with a concept mirroring theNorthern Ontario and Finnish landscapes, and a commitment towards LEED certification and ‘green’ living. The total estimated cost for this project is $16 million. To assist with these construction costs, OFRA launch of the Uusi Koti capital fundraising campaign has a goal of raising a minimum of $4 million, with current donations totaling roughly $500,000.

With no additional funding beyond its basic operating expenses, OFRA’s future plans require the support of donors and outside funding. There are many ways to give, including by mail, phone or in person, or online at www.uusikoticampaign.com .

-30-

ABOUT OFRA and the UUSI KOTI CAMPAIGN

The Ontario Finnish Resthome Association (OFRA) is a non-profit charitable organization providing safe and affordable housing to all seniors in the Algoma District. With three current buildings; the Kotitalo, the Mauno Kaihla Koti and the Suomi Eesti Maja, OFRA provides all levels of seniors care and is known for their exceptional quality of services. Currently home to over 300 residents, OFRA is anticipating and meeting the ever-growing needs of the seniors in the Algoma communities by launching the Uusi Koti- A New Home: Campaign for Seniors Independent Living , with a commitment of raising $4 million towards the construction of a new seniors residence. For more information on OFRA and the Uusi Koti campaign, and how to become a donor please contact the Fundraising Office at 705-945-9987 or visit the website at www.ontariofinnishresthome.ca .

Prepared by Emily Tuomi

Secretary, Ontario Finnish Resthome Foundation

A Brush with Art – Tickets Going Fast

Tue, 09 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Tickets for The Ontario Finnish Resthome Association’s (OFRA) inaugural event, A Brush with Art are going fast. This evening of fine dining and artistic appreciation will take place on Saturday, April 20th, 2013 in the Pavilion at Algoma’s Water Tower Inn & Suites. Proceeds from A Brush with Art support OFRA’s Uusi Koti – A New Home: Campaign for Seniors’ Independent Living. The Uusi Koti Campaign is a $4 million capital campaign to assist with the $16 million estimated cost of constructing a new, seniors independent living building in Sault Ste. Marie. “If we hope to meet the growing need for secure and affordable living accommodations for our seniors in the coming years, steps need to be taken now.” says Uusi Koti Campaign Director, Kim LeBlanc-Turpin. “This is the motivating factor and the fundamental principle behind our capital campaign”.

A Brush with Art is the must attend event of the year, bringing together the pleasure of fine dining with the inspiration of original works of art and the fun of a live auction. During cocktail hour guests will have the opportunity to purchase unique, handcrafted items from the Artisan Emporium. They will then delight in a magnificent five-course meal with the ambience of classical guitar. Following, will be a fun and entertaining live auction conducted by the Sault’s own Vernon Bailey featuring over 40 items ranging from sculptures, to original oil paintings and everything in between.

“The support from local artists has been truly amazing. We continue to receive donations on a daily basis and are absolutely astonished by the level of support. We are happy to announce that Porter Airlines has generously donated 2 roundtrip tickets anywhere they fly for the live auction portion of the evening,” says Kim Cyr, Event Coordinator.

Tickets while limited, are available until April 12th for the fundraising gala. Tickets for A Brush With Art are $100 per person and can be purchased over the phone by calling 705-945-9987, Ext. 256, 257 or 258 or in person from the Campaign Office at 721 North Street. A charitable receipt will be provided for a portion of the ticket price.

For more information on the Uusi Koti Campaign or to view some of the beautiful items that will be available for purchase at the event, visit the campaign website at www.uusikoticampaign.com . Find us on Facebook at Uusi Koti – A New Home: Campaign For Seniors Independent Living and join the conversation.

Original Local2 Story

Brush With Art – Elegance in support of local seniors

Fri, 22 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

SAULT STE MARIE, ON – The Ontario Finnish Resthome Association (OFRA) is hosting A Brush with Art, an evening of fine dining and artistic appreciation.

This formal dinner and art auction will take place on Saturday, April 20th 2013 in the Pavilion at Algoma’s Water Tower Inn & Suites.

The evening is in support of OFRA’s Uusi Koti – A New Home: Campaign for Seniors’ Independent Living.

The Uusi Koti campaign is a $4 million capital campaign to assist with the $16 million estimated cost of building a new, safe and affordable seniors’ independent living building in our community.

“Every one of us has a senior in our lives that will one day, need to access secure and affordable independent living accommodations – this is the motivating factor and the fundamental principle behind our capital fundraising campaign,” says Uusi Koti Campaign Director Kim LeBlanc-Turpin.

Certain to be an enjoyable evening, A Brush with Art will begin with a cocktail hour and Artisan Emporium.

The Artisan Emporium is similar to a marketplace in that it features a variety of unique, handcrafted items to purchase, ranging from jewellery to wooden deck chairs.

Following cocktail hour, guests will enjoy a culinary adventure featuring a divine, multi-course dinner, paired with red and white wines.

The evening’s highlight will undoubtedly be the live art auction featuring works from renowned artists such as: Doug Hook, James Evans, Heather Horton, Chris MacClure, Lloyd Pretty and Glen Scrimshaw, just to name a few.

Kindly donating his time for the live auction portion of the evening is Auctioneer Vernon Bailey.

In the last 16 years, Vernon has helped to raise over $2,000,000 for a variety of charities.

A Brush with Art is proud to have Paul Kaihla serving as the Master of Ceremonies.

After high school, this Sir James Dunn Alumni moved to Toronto and made a name for himself as a journalist, author and screenwriter.

After earning record-setting awards for Maclean’s and Canadian Business, Paul was recruited by Time Inc. in 2000 and moved to San Francisco, California to cover digital media, technology and venture capital.

Paul is currently the founder and CEO of a San Francisco based digital media company, Souls Code.

Tickets for the April 20th fundraising gala are $100 per person and can be purchased through the Uusi Koti Campaign Office by calling 705-945-9987, Ext. 256 , 257 or 258.

Tickets are also available for purchase in person from the Campaign Office at 721 North Street.

A charitable receipt will be provided for a portion of the ticket price.

For more information on the Uusi Koti Campaign or for a sneak peak at some of the beautiful items in the A Brush with Art auction catalogue and Artisan Emporium, visit our campaign website at www.uusikoticampaign.com .

Find us on Facebook at Uusi Koti – A New Home: Campaign For Seniors Independent Living and join the conversation.

Original SooToday Story

Group Plans Apartments For Seniors

Fri, 08 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

An increasingly greying population in Sault Ste. Marie and Algoma District is prompting Ontario Finnish Resthome Association to build an 81-unit apartment building for seniors.

It’s OFRA’s first major construction project in more than 20 years. The structure is also part of an ambitious plan to dramatically increase the number of beds OFRA offers older residents in the next decade.

The project, budgeted at $16 million, will include 52 one-bedroom units and 29 two-bedroom apartments. The units will be 575 or 725 square feet.

Monthly rent, including utilities, will be about $900 and $1200.

There’s also a potential for 17 life-leases, or 10 one-bedroom and 7 two-bedroom units, on the top floor. Purchasers could sell the units back to OFRA. Sale price, and maintenance fee, were not available.

The five-storey building will go up on a hill on the northwest corner of OFRA’s property on North Street. It will stand between three existing properties and Kiwedin public school.

OFRA, a non-profit charitable organization formed in 1971, plans to do road work leading to the new site this year with construction to start in 2014 and occupancy by early 2015.

The units, acknowledging the older demographic who will reside there, include no-slip flooring in bathrooms, showers with grab bars, wider hallways and levered handles.

There’s a number of special rooms planned for the building designed by architect David Ellis including space for computers, carpentry and artists.

About 20% of Algoma District residents are 65 and older. That number “is expected to grow exponentially over the next two decades,” reads OFRA’s case for support explaining the new project.

“If we hope to meet the growing need for safe, accessible and affordable housing for our seniors in the coming years, steps need to be taken now.”

The project is also prompted by a dearth of affordable housing for seniors in Sault Ste. Marie, said OFRA fundraising campaign assistant Kim Cyr.

“There’s nowhere for them to live,” she said.

The new building will “try and alleviate some of that pressure in the district of Algoma,” said Cyr.

There’s a six-year waiting list of people who want to live at OFRA’s 27-acre site. Other affordable housing options for seniors include Lions Place on Bay Street and Columbian Towers operated by Knights of Columbus on Northern Avenue East.

The project will be the fourth major build on the property. Suomi Eesti Maja, OFRA’s current four-storey independent living building with 134 units, went up in 1976. It was followed by Kotitalo, an assisted living facility with 102 rooms, in 1982 and Mauno Kaihla Koti, a 60-bed nursing home, in 1991.

OFRA has received about 150 applications from persons interested in living in the new building.

They include current occupants of Suomi Eesti Maja, city residents who plan to downsize and persons who’ve inquired about living in a OFRA unit.

OFRA administration decide who will live in the new building.

“The waiting list is managed on a first-come, first-serve basis,” said Kim LeBlanc-Turpin, director of the fundraising campaign.

“The usual standard reference check (ie. credit check and history of tenancy) as with any rental facility, applies. Applications will be reviewed against the policy once the building is ready for occupancy.”

OFRA wants to raise $4 million in the next two years with its campaign, Uusi Koti-A New Home: Campaign for Seniors Independent Living. A mortgage will be taken out for the remaining $12 million. There is no government funding for the building.

Naming opportunities start at $5,000. Rights for the building cost $1.5 million. Several families and Ontario Finnish Resthome Association Foundation have already snapped up several rooms.

A major fundraiser, A Brush with Art, is planned for April 20 at Algoma’s Water Tower Inn. Cocktails start at 6 p.m. followed by dinner at 7:30 p.m. Menu items include salmon potato chowder, butternut squash ravioli with maple cream sauce and charbroiled sirloin wrapped in applewood bacon with peppercorn sauce.

An artist emporium runs from 6 to 10 p.m. in the hotel’s atrium. Participating talent includes Doug Hook, James Evans, Heather Horton and Chris MacClure.

A live auction with Vernon Bailey begins at 9 p.m.

Tickets cost $100 and include a tax receipt for $25.

Call 705-945-9987, ext. 257 to purchase.

Tax deductible donations can be mailed to 721 North St., Sault Ste. Marie, P6B 5T7. By telephone, call 705-945-9987, ext. 256, 257 or 258. Online contributions can be made at www.uusikoticampaign.com

Cheques should be made payable to OFRA.

The group’s 10-year growth plan includes erecting a new nursing home near the soon-to-be constructed apartment building and converting Mauno Kaihla Koti to an assistive living facility. The new nursing home may include two palliative rooms.

Original Sault Star Story

Ski, Toboggan And Eat Pancakes To Support Local Seniors

Wed, 20 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT

SAULT STE MARIE, ON – The Ontario Finnish Resthome Association’s (OFRA) board of directors, is hosting a Family Fun Day in support of their Uusi Koti – A New Home Campaign.

A fundraising event for all ages, it combines outdoor activities with a traditional Finnish culinary adventure.

“Family Fun Day” will be held at OFRA’s current independent living building, Suomi Eesti Maja, 721 North Street, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday March 2nd, 2013.

Admission is $12 for adults and $8 for children (10 and under).

All proceeds go to support OFRA’s capital campaign to construct a much needed seniors independent living apartment building.

OFRA’s Family Fun Day offers something for the whole family.

Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy the outdoors and take part in a snowshoe/ski/walking tour of the OFRA grounds including a visit to the future site of the new seniors’ apartment building.

Certain to be the highlight of the day will be the signature culinary breakfast of traditional Finnish pancakes and sausage.

OFRA’s Family Fun Day also offers a children’s toboggan hill and skating pond, craft and bake sale tables as well as a 50/50 draw.

So, gather your family and friends grab your toboggans, skates, snowshoes and cross-country skis and join in the fun.

Ski and snowshoe rentals are available from Hiawatha Highlands by calling: 705-256-7258.

The Ontario Finnish Resthome Association’s Uusi Koti – A New Home Capital Campaign has a goal to raise a minimum of $4 million to help with the estimated $16 million construction project cost of a much needed new 83 unit seniors independent living apartment building.

“New senior’s independent living buildings are a must for the Algoma district… with 20.8% of the current population 65 years of age and over, the time to act is now,” says OFRA board chair Todd Slotegraaf.

For more information on OFRA’s Family Fun Day or how to get involved with the Uusi Koti Capital Campaign, visit the campaign website at www.uusikoticampaign.com , or call the fundraising office at 705-945-9987, Ext. 258.

Original SooToday Story

Local Family With Big Heart and a Big Cheque

Mon, 11 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT

The Ontario Finnish Resthome Association’s (ORFA) capital campaign, Uusi Koti – A New Home: Campaign For Seniors Independent Living received a big surprise this week. Long-time residents of Sault Ste. Marie, the Malkki Family have generously donated $10,000 to the Uusi Koti Campaign. The donation was made by the six siblings of the Malkki family, Seija, Jouko, Jorma, Sinikka, Juhani and Heidi in loving honour of their mother Sirkka and in loving memory of their father Kauko.

The Malkki family name has become synonymous with quality saunas in our community, with their father Kauko Malkki founding Teho Sauna Heaters. “The Campaign is thankful and fortunate to have such strong and passionate supporters like the Malkki Family,” says OFRA board chair Todd Slotegraaf. “In recognition of this gift the sauna room in our new independent living apartment building will be named after the family.”

“We are so honoured that the new sauna room will carry our family name,” says Sinikka (Malkki) Dawson. “We can think of no better way for our family’s gift to be recognized, it combines our families lifelong involvement with OFRA; our Finnish heritage and our father’s legacy.

Currently the wait times for seniors independent living apartment buildings (not geared to income) in Sault Ste. Marie is between two – six years. “New senior’s independent living buildings are a must for the Algoma district. With 20.8% of the current population 65 years of age and over, the time to act is now,” says OFRA board chair Todd Slotegraaf. OFRA’s Uusi Koti – A New Home Capital Campaign has a goal of $4 million to help with the $16 million construction project cost of a much-needed 83 unit seniors independent living apartment building.

For more information on OFRA’s Uusi Koti Capital Campaign, and how to get involved with the campaign yourself, visit the campaign website at www.uusikoticampaign.com , or call the fundraising office at 705-945-9987, Ext. 258

Original Local2 Story

Sault Theatre Workshop raises curtain on funds for OFRA

Wed, 10 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

(October 10, 2012 – SAULT STE. MARIE, ON) Last night was an evening of laughter and great entertainment as residents and staff of The Ontario Finnish Resthome Association (OFRA), along with their friends and families, attended the Preview Night of the Sault Theatre Workshop’s production Inside Out . The theatre group has kindly donated the $1,117.51 in proceeds from their Preview Night to The Ontario Finnish Resthome’s “Uusi Koti – A New Home” campaign.

The Uusi Koti Campaign is a $3 million capital fundraising campaign the resthome recently launched to assist in the building of their new seniors independent living apartment building.

“Receiving this support from the Sault Theatre Workshop is fantastic”, says Todd Slotegraaf, Chair of The Ontario Finnish Resthome Association’s Board of Directors. “We haven’t officially gone public yet with our capital campaign so, to have them come forward with this gift and acknowledge the need for a new seniors building in our community means a great deal to us. I’m glad I had the opportunity to go up on stage after the performance to personally thank this talented group of women on behalf of the Finnish Resthome. I think I speak for everyone when I say it was a truly enjoyable evening.”

Directed by Susan Barber, Inside Out is a bright, witty and wise musical comedy that explores a number of women’s issues with humour, wit and sensitivity. The story is about a therapy group, headed by a psychologist named Grace (Shelley Gold) and her assistant Betty (Lori Springall). The group is transformed forever when a new person Dena (Patricia Pulcine), joins the group and winds up being a catalyst for change in the lives of: Sage (Kyla Becker) a flower child of the ‘80s; Liz (Darla Pirillo) a powerful businesswoman, Chlo (Lorilee Matheson) a gay single mom of a teenage son; and Molly (Sherry Longo), a mother of two young children who’s dealing with weight issues.

Susan’s mother Peggy Barber is a resident of Mauno Kaihla Koti, which is OFRA’s nursing home. “For my brother and I, and for Mum too, moving Mum to any nursing home was an agonizing, sorrow-filled decision. Yet as we come up on almost a year with Mauno Kaihla Koti, we are confident that Mum is in a wonderful place. She is loved there and we all feel like family. She is safe and cared for, yet still has new experiences and adventures. Why? Because of Mya, Jackie, Derek, Lina and many, many, more. Because of hugs and kisses and patience and humour. I’m happy that I can help the fund-raising efforts of OFRA”, says Susan.

Inside Out launches the Sault Theatre Workshop’s 64th season. The play continues through October 20, with wine available during Thursday, Friday and Saturday night shows. Tickets are $20.00 and $18.00 and available at Madonna Optical in the Station Mall or by calling 946-4081.

Original SooToday Story

Phase 4 at Finnish Resthome in fundraising stage

Wed, 11 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Sault Ste. Marie Finnish Resthome plans an expansion intended to help local seniors find affordable housing.

“The plans we have would help the community tremendously,” said Todd Slotegraaf, chairman of the Ontario Finnish Resthome Association.

“It would go a long way towards helping to meet the city’s supportive housing need for seniors.”

Slotegraaf said the Finnish Resthome plans two upgrades to its present facilities.

The rest home provides three main services for seniors (Phase 1: affordable housing, Phase 2: supportive housing care and Phase 3: nursing home care). Slotegraaf said Phase 4, a new senior’s independent living complex, would provide affordable housing for seniors and Phase 5 will upgrade the nursing home facility. Phase 4’s independent living complex would include 40 two-bedroom apartments. Its opening would create around 20 new jobs.

Plans are to make each apartment fully air-conditioned and handicapped accessible, Slotegraaf said.

The new facility will use property owned by the rest home, behind Kiwedin public elementary school on North Street. It? s already appropriately zoned.

Don Maki, chief building official for the city, said the building wouldn? t interfere with the nearby Hub Trail.

Currently, Slotegraaf said the rest home is in a planning stage. Construction –other than creation of a road this summer leading to the site –won’t begin until next spring.

The rest home has selected a local architect, David Ellis, and will choose a construction company this October after plans are finalized.

Before final touches to the blueprint can be done, the rest home must do some fundraising, Slotegraaf said.

The board has chosen former member of Parliament Ron Irwin to be spokesperson for the fundraising campaign, to be highlighted by a midsummer Solstice Finnish festival on Friday, June 22, from 2 to 9 p.m. at the home.

People can visit the Finnish Resthome’s website ( https://www.ontariofinnishresthome.ca) to donate online.

The upgrades are part of provincial government legislation which stipulates the upgrade of Ontario nursing homes to Class A within 10 years.

Slotegraaf said the legislation was introduced around three years ago. The Finnish Resthome is now rated Class B.

While completion of Phase 4 depends on the home raising funds, Phase 5 requires government funding. The province would cover 75 per cent of the project? s cost. Talks with Sault MPP David Orazietti have been positive, Slotegraaf said.

“We’re still pushing for funding. Orazietti has been very receptive and helpful throughout the process thus far.”

Original Sault This Week Story