Abbeyfield House Society of Lakefield is inviting the public to partake in an upcoming celebration that marks a major milestone in its quest to build a family-style seniors’ home in Lakefield.
After nearly a decade of work, Abbeyfield House Society of Lakefield said it’s about to receive approval from Selwyn Township of its final site plan for the 19-unit building on 93 Ermatinger Street in Lakefield.
Abbeyfield Lakefield is hosting an event at the Marshland Centre on Saturday (October 18) to unveil a sign that will be placed on the Ermatinger Street property with a rendering of the seniors’ home that will be built there. In addition, Abbeyfield Lakefield president Ron Black will provide an update on next steps.
“Our next steps are to finalize our construction drawings and get a cost estimate that we can use to apply for construction financing through Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation,” Black told kawarthaNOW.
“Once we have finalized our contract costs for the build, we are planning to have shovels in the ground next spring if all goes well. We will also be running a capital campaign to raise some of the money for the build as well, to again keep our overall project costs as loss a possible so we can offer the most affordable housing possible as well,” Black said.
“Of course, the cost to build is connected to the cost to operate, so we’re leaning on a number of grant opportunities and sponsorships in addition to the capital campaign,” he added.
Abbeyfield Lakefield will serve as an affordable home for 17 independent seniors and will also provide housing for a house manager and two Trent University students.
The project was founded by Lakefield resident Dewi Jones in 2016 when he was looking for suitable retirement accommodation for a family member in Wales, found the Abbeyfield House concept, and organized a public meeting about forming an Abbeyfield Society in Lakefield with the goal of establishing a local Abbeyfield House. Since then, the project been driven by a small group of dedicated volunteers.
“Little did I realize that my aspirations nearly 10 years ago could have evolved to this extent,” said the 93-year-old Jones in a statement. “Thanks to all the volunteer board members who over time had faith and commitment to the project. At times we wondered (if it would come to fruition), but whenever you find yourself doubting how far you can go, just remember how far you have come. I’m so proud to still be a part of this development.”
Abbeyfield Lakefield was incorporated as a not-for-profit in May 2019 and became a registered charity at the end of 2019. In January of 2021, Abbeyfield Lakefield purchased a four-acre property in Lakefield. In January of 2024, after severing the property, the house was sold, with three acres retained for the build.
Abbeyfield’s core mandate is to provide affordable accommodation and companionship for local seniors. Each house is a non-profit, registered charity.
The first Abbeyfield House was founded in England in 1956 by retired British Major Richard Carr-Gomm, in response to the profound human loneliness he witnessed. Since then, hundreds of Abbeyfield Houses have formed around the world.
In Canada, the Abbeyfield House Society of Canada was established in 1985 with the first home in British Columbia. There are currently more than 20 Abbeyfield Houses across the country.
“At Abbeyfield Lakefield, we’re proving that affordable housing can also be compassionate housing,” Black said in a statement.
“When a community comes together to create a safe, welcoming home for local seniors, we’re not just providing shelter — we’re building connection, dignity, and belonging. That’s what makes Lakefield such a special place, and it’s why I’m so proud to be part of this work.”
Abbeyfield Lakefield supporters and neighbours are invited to gather on October 18 from 10 to 11 a.m. at the Marshland Centre, which is located at 65 Hague Blvd. Organizers ask those who plan to attend to send their RSVP to Terri Kinghorn by emailing territravels@hotmail.com or by calling 437-991-4214.
For more information about Abbeyfield Lakefield and to donate, visit abbeyfieldlakefield.ca.
