Client Profile: Somerset West Community Health Centre
Located in the Hintonburg neighbourhood of Ottawa, Somerset West Community Health Centre (Somerset CHC) has provided optimal healthcare services and social programs for 40 plus years. Key services include: primary healthcare, health promotion, community development, addictions and mental health counselling, HIV prevention, and group exercise programs. Recognized as a community leader, Somerset CHC promotes equality and welcomes clients of all income levels, languages, cultures, ages, genders, sexual orientations, family compositions, and disabilities.
Closures of several other Hintonburg health facilities plus growth in the area’s population have prompted Somerset CHC to expand its resources to better serve the community. This centre currently operates at maximum capacity and therefore faces space and layout constraints. As well, the 19,000 square-foot complex remains remote to those residing in the western part of the community.
The Hintonburg Hub (30 Rosemount): New Satellite Location
In 2012, Somerset CHC purchased a 2.5 storey office building, originally a church, in West Hintonburg to expand its services. The new satellite location will be renovated into an interdisciplinary medical clinic and health-programming hub. The approximately 11,000 square-foot complex will feature elevator and ramp accessibility plus infection prevention and control measures. This extra space will allow staff to support an additional 1,100 clients per year.
This project is supported by community health organizations, such as the Champlain Local Health Integration Network as well as the Ministry of Community and Social Services, and the Ministry of Child and Youth Services.
IO’s Financing Solution
Initially, Somerset CHC provided funding through their Special Projects Fund and commenced a capital fundraising campaign. They also financed a line-of-credit mortgage with their existing facility.
In 2013, Somerset CHC approached Infrastructure Ontario to further finance the project’s estimated $5.3 million cost. The organization secured a twenty- five year loan for $4.8 million and was able to begin construction in September 2013.
“Infrastructure Ontario has worked closely with us to develop a successful business proposal and loan application. Now, we’ll be able to provide improved health and social program delivery through the whole Hintonburg catchment area.”
Jack McCarthy - Executive Director, Somerset West Community Centre
Hintonburg Hub
The Hintonburg Hub is expected to open its doors to the public in the spring of 2014. The centre will provide a comprehensive set of healthcare services surrounding clinical procedures, counseling, and social initiatives; patients will not be required to go elsewhere for referrals. Co-locating with Somerset CHC’s current premises, this hub will further accommodate the specific needs of Hintonburg’s growing demographic. Patients will benefit from a more convenient and integrated delivery approach.
Infrastructure Ontario’s Loan Program has helped to extend medical and social resources throughout the Hintonburg area, creating a satellite hub that delivers optimal health from an optimal location.
For more information about Somerset CHC please visit their website at www.swchc.on.ca.