BURNABY- Fraser Health, together with Chartwell Retirement Residences, today announced the official opening of Carlton Gardens Care Centre, a redeveloped 128-bed residential care facility for seniors in Burnaby.

"Seniors are an important part of our community, and Burnaby seniors in particular will benefit from this modern facility. Thanks to Chartwell and Fraser Health, seniors can remain in their community close to family and friends, in this comfortable home-like residence," said Ralph Sultan, Minister of State for Seniors.

Chartwell invested $27 million in the redevelopment project and Fraser Health provides $7.4 million annually to fund 117 residential care beds at the site. The other 11 residential-care beds are private-pay, making up the maximum total of 128 beds.

"Fraser Health is pleased to partner with Chartwell Retirement Residences on the redevelopment of Carlton Gardens. This state-of-the-art facility provides seniors with a high level of care for their changing needs," said Keith McBain, director, Business Developments and Contracts, Residential Care and Assisted Living, Fraser Health.

The new Carlton Gardens has a modern, home-like feel comprising eight residential neighbourhoods across four storeys with dedicated indoor lounge, activity, gathering and quiet areas. There are also secured - yet open and welcoming outdoor spaces - for residents, families and staff to enjoy.

"On behalf of Chartwell and all the staff at Carlton Gardens, we are very pleased that through our partnership with Fraser Health, we are able to offer the seniors of Burnaby such a warm and welcoming residence dedicated to their well-being and comfort," said Donna Marasco, senior vice-president of operations, Chartwell Retirement Residences.

Resident amenities include a library, activity room, hair salon and lounges. Along with a multi-purpose room and family-gathering and celebration room, a guest suite is available for residents' families.

The original Carlton Hospital was built in 1966 and Carlton Lodge was added in 1972. When Chartwell purchased the facility in 2005, the company began planning to replace the aging facility with a modern, state-of-the-art facility that is up to the high standards it sets for all of its residential care facilities.

Carlton Gardens is owned by Chartwell Retirement Residences, which owns and operates a range of seniors housing communities across Canada, from independent supportive living and assisted living, to long-term care. It is one of the largest participants in the seniors' housing business in North America.

Media Contact:

Ryan Jabs
Media Relations Manager
Ministry of Health
250 952-1887 (media line)

Fraser Health Media Pager
604 450-7881
media@fraserhealth.ca