Southern Manitoba's first respite home has been running strong for over a year now, and continues to act as a crutch for families during difficult times.

Katie's Cottage, located between Winkler and Morden near Boundary Trails Health Centre (BTHC), has housed hundreds of people since its first day of operation on August 3, 2016.

Not only does the facility provide an area for families to rest, eat and retreat, but it has essentially transformed their overall experience, said BTHC Director of Health Services Angie Cusson. Whether someone needs a place to stay while their loved one is in palliative care or in surgery, or an emergency has occurred and they need a place to stay, the Cottage caters to the guest's immediate needs and allows quick access to the hospital, she said.

"It's so professionally run. It offers so much more than, I think, even the public ... and our patients are aware of. Even a year later we're still looking at new ways that the building and the facility and the people at Katie's Cottage can support our hospital," said Cusson.

She attributed the success of the Cottage to the outstanding support of the community, not only financially but with volunteer help as well.

"It really is a huge testament to our community and the people that live and work around here," she said.