The construction of a new assisted living complex in MacGregor, known as Victoria Place, is nearing completion. Board Chair Dan Sawatzky says they're more than 90 per cent completed the construction of the facility, and expects tenants to begin to move in this summer. He notes this project's been in the works for more than five years, and seeing it so close to becoming a reality is exciting.

"It's very gratifying to see a vision, the effort and hard work of the community coming alongside to support it, and now to see it nearing fruition. Certainly it will be a great asset for our community. It's a very good, welcoming place for the residents who need something like this."

Assisted living's a challenge in many smaller communities across the province, with some having to move to larger centres, or remain living on their own. Sawatzky says this new facility will help address that issue within MacGregor, and the Municipality of North Norfolk.

"I think something like this will keep people connected, with the services we provide it makes life a little easier for them, but I think the social benefits that relate to health certainly will be a huge boost. We're just glad to have this facility in our community."

The facility features 12 single bedroom units, and four two-bedroom units, and Sawatzky says they've already filled about 60 per cent of the spaces. The complex also features offices for Southern Health-Santé Sud staff, and another space for service providers that have yet to be determined.

"That's our hope, to provide things for the residents so it's more than just a place to live. We want to develop a bit of a community feel as well."

While the construction work's nearing completion, the committee itself still has no shortage of work to do. Sawatzky says they have a significant loan to pay down, and they're planning fundraisers to help. A soup and pie fundraiser's planned for Austin later this week, with that funding being used to purchase kitchen supplies. Meanwhile, he says they're also working with the North Norfolk-MacGregor Foundation to host a gala, but the details surrounding that event have yet to be confirmed.