Salem Home officials say the staff has gone above and beyond to love and serve their residents during the difficult health situation.

Whether it's taking residents for walks or spending extra time with those missing their family, Karin Oliveira says staff are looking for special ways to show love to the residents.

While some are taking to the new video conferencing options to stay connected with family, others can't quite comprehend the concept, she says.

Oliveira notes sadly some residents might not recognize their family members by the time the global health situation winds down and social distancing measures are relaxed.

In the meantime, she notes family have been understanding, "they know we're keeping their loved ones safe."

Despite the challenges, the personal care home in Winkler recently celebrated the refurnishing of 40 rooms with new bedside tables and dressers. The rooms were spruced up thanks to the donations received last fall at the Building for Tomorrow banquet.

To continue their efforts to replace the 30-year-old furniture in the remaining 56 rooms, Salem Foundation Executive Coordinator Charmaine Harder says they adjusting their annual Faspa Fellowship and Song fundraiser to take into account the current health climate.

Instead, they've launched the Armchair Fundraiser for New Furniture, inviting supporters to donate by cheque, credit card or online. The campaign runs from April 23 to May 29 and organizers hopes to raise $146,000 for the cost of the new furnishings.

Learn more by contacting Salem Home at 204-325-4316.

The new furnishings at Salem Home were recently installed