History of Markhaven

Markhaven was the vision of Lois and Wes Neely, along with Howard Heidman, Ewart Hedman and Murray Barrington, who saw a pressing need for a Home where seniors would be nurtured in a Christian environment.

On October 5, 1960, the Neelys opened their home at 204 Main Street in Markham to the first resident.  Markhaven eventually became “home” to 15 seniors.  It was licensed as the only non-profit Nursing Home in the Province of Ontario at that time, and operated in this capacity for the next 10 years.

In May 1970, the residents moved to its present site at 54 Parkway Ave in Markham. Capacity at that time was 43 beds and the home operated as a charitable non-profit Home for the Aged, governed by the Charitable Institutions Act.

In 1974, the north wing was added, to complete the 75-bed facility. In the 1980s, various internal and minor expansions were made. The square footage of the building was less than 18,000 square feet.

In the early 1990s the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care assumed responsibility for homes for the aged. In May 1993, the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care mandated that long term care homes in the province meet new Design Guidelines. In the late 1990s Markhaven was awarded additional beds under a Ministry of Health Request for Proposal process and increased the number of licensed beds for redevelopment to 96.

In October 2002, the old building was demolished and the newly constructed facility opened its doors in March 2004. The program for rebuilding would not have been possible without the banding together of our immediate community and the many, many volunteers who so selflessly gave of their time and resources.

The home has grown to approximately 65,000 square feet, with two floors and four Resident Home Areas that are fully contained and independent, housing 96 residents. Two of the home areas on the north side of the building accommodate 21 residents on each unit and the two units on the south side each accommodate 27 residents. There is a mix of private, semi-private and basic rooms with ensuites. Each home area has its own lounge areas, activity room, and dining room. Markhaven also offers a large multi-purpose room with a chapel facility, as well as library.

In 2007 the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care changed its approach to managing health services, and set up Local Health Integration Networks (LHINs). As of July 2010 Markhaven has been funded through the Central LHIN) and is regulated under the Long-Term Care Homes Act, 2007.

During the many years of service to the community, Markhaven has provided a full range of care for literally hundreds of seniors. The profile of residents served has changed from persons needing residential care to persons requiring significant interdisciplinary health care. Admission to the home is now managed through the placement process provided by Community Care Access Centres.

Our reputation is largely due to the skilled and dedicated staff, backed up by the interest and involvement of the Board of Directors and many faithful volunteers.