Just a few years ago Clint Hall of Hall Quality Homes became aware the need for a quality assisted living facility in the Central Peninsula. After a lot of research and visits to facilities across Alaska and the lower 48 he began construction of the Charis Place on Forest Dr. in Kenai. Charis (pronounced kah’rees) is a Greek word meaning: Grace, that which affords joy, pleasure and loveliness. The new Charis Place certainly lives up to the definition of its name says administrator Colleen McNulty, “Charis Place Assisted Living was born of an idea by Clint Hall to offer excellent care to the seniors on the Kenai Peninsula. This idea became a reality almost two years ago, when construction began on North Forest Drive in Kenai. A new twenty-one (21) bed assisted living community was constructed and is now open for business,” McNulty told the Dispatch. As administrator McNulty shared Halls vision of building a community that offers the best care possible while having fun doing it, “Over the past months, construction and design were coupled to make the building easy to navigate, always keeping the resident’s perspective in mind. Easy opening to the outside, mailboxes accessible to those in wheelchairs, rooms designed to accommodate single or double occupancy, kitchenettes and private baths in each apartment and individually controlled thermostats to complete each room making it as comfortable as possible for each resident,” she said.
“It’s really great to open now and watching folks living here and enjoying the beautiful facility. It’s nice to see the care givers enjoying their jobs, the chef preparing nutritious meals and snacks for the residents and the appreciation from the people who are enjoying their new home and lives here,” said Clint Hall.
Charis Place Assisted Living has an enclosed outdoor courtyard, complete with raised flower and vegetable beds, again, designed for residents in wheelchairs. Outside bistro tables to enjoy a cup of coffee or afternoon tea. Planned activities geared toward the desires of each individual. Three meals served in a beautiful dining room and snacks available daily. Charis Place caters to individual dietary restraints and food allergens. “Gluten free? No problem! We are here to please,” says Chef Marti Anderson. “When I first came over a year ago I was asked where I was going to find my staff and so I replied locally of course and people are amazed at the quality and training of caregivers that we have here locally, some with over 20 years of experience of taking care of the elderly,” said McNulty. “Need a few days off from taking care of a loved one? Charis Place has you covered. Our private respite room is completely furnished with a hospital bed, pull out couch, dining nook, kitchenette and private bath; stay one night or up to thirty days. Relax and soak your feet in our foot spa while our specially trained registered nurse performs her magic on your tootsies. You will dance a jig on your way out. No need to jump in the car or wait for a taxi to take you to a podiatrist. Our on-site beauty shop offers convenience and care,” she said. “We’re here to bless the seniors of our community and provide what they need for their quality of life,” added Clint Hall.
Apartments are now available at the new Medicade certified Charis Place, but filling up fast according to Hall. You may call to arrange for a tour, or just drop by. Need information about cost or how to pay for assisted living? Give Colleen a call today, she will be glad to help you at 907-335-2050 located at 701 North Forest Drive, in Kenai.
Charis Place Administrator Colleen McNulty & caregiver Valerie Smith find the missing piece as they share life with their clients.
