Shoemaker Presses Province for Major Expansion at Finnish Resthome

In Sault Ste. Marie, mayor Matthew Shoemaker is advocating for increased funding for the Ontario Finnish Resthome. This push comes amid concerns that current funding levels are inadequate for the community’s growing elderly population. The Ontario Finnish Resthome Association (OFRA) is seeking financial support for the Mauno Kaihla Koti long-term care facility, which has been in the pipeline since 2014.

Sault Ste. Marie’s Call for Provincial Support

Mayor Shoemaker sent a letter to Ontario’s Minister of Long-Term Care, Natalia Kusendova Bashta, highlighting the urgent need for greater financial backing. He emphasized the disparity in funding that northern Ontario communities face compared to areas like Greater Toronto and Hamilton.

Funding Discrepancies

• Funding for projects in Greater Toronto and Hamilton can reach up to $750,000 per bed.
• Sault Ste. Marie’s projects are capped at $450,000 per bed.

This discrepancy has raised concerns about equity in long-term care funding. Shoemaker pointed out that while construction costs are higher in the north, the current funding model does not reflect these realities. As a result, northern facilities face significant financial challenges in improving their infrastructure.

The OFRA Proposal

The Mauno Kaihla Koti project, estimated at $62 million, was halted due to the unfavorable economic climate as of February 19, 2025. The OFRA has been striving for nearly ten years to secure funding for the facility. Shoemaker’s letter underlines the longstanding commitment OFRA has made to providing quality care for local seniors over the past 55 years.

Impact on Local Healthcare

Without increased funding for modern long-term care facilities, Sault Ste. Marie will struggle to meet the growing demand for elderly care. The lack of adequate care options has led to overcrowding in local hospitals, particularly the Sault Area Hospital, which often has a high number of Alternate Level of Care patients. This issue complicates patient flow and places additional strain on the healthcare system.

A Call for Fair Treatment

Both Mayor Shoemaker and OFRA’s CEO, Paul Belair, are urging the Ontario government for a funding model that addresses regional disparities. The current approach risks increasing inequities and diminishing care quality. They advocate for a system that acknowledges the unique challenges northern communities face in delivering long-term care.

As the situation unfolds, ongoing dialogue between local leaders and provincial authorities will be crucial in addressing the inadequacies of the current funding framework, ultimately improving access to quality care for seniors in Sault Ste. Marie.