It’s Happening!
“They that hope in the LORD will renew their strength, they will soar on eagles’ wings; They will run and not grow weary, walk and not grow faint.” – Isaiah 40:31
It’s exciting to see St. Francis Healthcare System soar to a new level as our 2020 vision becomes a reality. After months of anticipation, planning, hard work, and waiting on God, we celebrated two exciting milestones last week.
We held a groundbreaking ceremony to commence the construction of a new courtyard and a multi-purpose senior center at the St. Francis Kūpuna Village in Liliha last Monday, July 10. It marked the beginning of the next phase in the development of the campus.
The following day, Ohana Pacific Management, our partner in skilled nursing care, celebrated the dedication and blessing of the kitchen and laundry of The Villas, located in the basement of the Sullivan Building. The Villas officially opened its doors in April 2015 and was part of the first phase of the campus transformation.
These two events were pivotal for St. Francis Healthcare System. Wasting no time, our construction crew went right to work to begin the transformation of the courtyard into a gathering place for seniors, caregivers, family and friends. It will include an outdoor bistro to take advantage of Hawaii’s beautiful year-round weather.
The courtyard will be bustling with activities: tai chi, yoga and other programs for seniors to remain active and healthy. They will be able to enjoy each other’s company while conveniently strolling to doctor’s appointments. We’ll also have an adult day care program on the Liliha campus — our third adult day care program to complement the programs we currently offer in Mānoa and Ewa Beach. All of this is scheduled to be open and fully operational next year.
The renovation of the Mother Marianne Building, once used for a hospital, will eventually be completely renovated and upgraded into an assisted living facility that includes a wing specifically dedicated for the Sisters of St. Francis.
The new kitchen and laundry will serve not only the residents of The Villas, but also the residents of the new assisted living facility and the participants of the senior center and adult day care program.
Like Saint Marianne Cope, we are hungry for the work of God. She was determined to serve. All of us at St. Francis Healthcare System are hungry to serve and consider it an honor to be able to contribute to this 130-year legacy of caring.
We are emboldened by that same can-do spirit that characterized the life and work of Saint Marianne. With God, no obstacle is too difficult to overcome. We are ready to break through new barriers to create healthy communities in Hawaii. We appreciate all those who have believed in us, encouraged us and stood by us. And, most of all, we are thankful for the families that continue to inspire us to keep dreaming bigger.
Jerry Correa
President & CEO
St. Francis Healthcare System