Farraline Place has new leadership

There is new leadership at Farraline Place, the ACW-affiliated home in downtown Fredericton. In late October, Chelsie Ogden began as the director of care and operations, replacing the long-serving administrator Judy O’Donnell. 

Chelsie is from Fredericton Junction, graduated from UNB and worked as a registered nurse for several years. 

“Then life took me in a different direction,” she said.

Since then she’s worked for various agencies caring for vulnerable people. When Farraline was looking for a new director, they wanted someone with a care component in their background, which Chelsie had as a nurse.

It’s been a bit of a learning experience for Chelsie, getting used to managing a large seniors’ home, but she’s happy with her new role.

“It’s a bit overwhelming at times, like any new job,” she said. “It’s very busy, especially being December with lots of things to plan, but I absolutely love it. I feel like it’s home — a comfortable, warm feeling.”

She has been relying on the Rev. Dr. David Mercer, the chair of Farraline’s board of directors, for guidance.

“Honestly, I don’t think I could be more supported,” she said of him.

PLANS
Chelsie has lots of plans for Farraline Place, many of which involve the maintenance of the building, and will rely largely on donations to come to fruition. 

A kitchen renovation, including a new dishwasher, as the home has only a sanitizer, is on her mind. 

“The housekeepers are handwashing for 60 meals a day,” she said.

She’d also like to have some interior walls painted, as well as tackle a few other jobs. 

There is the ongoing fundraiser for new carpeting throughout the home, which ACW branches and executive are supporting. That goal is $10,000.

Her nursing background has prompted her to create a new medication chart, and she has been busy updating files digitally.

She also wants to update the menus and offer more diabetic-friendly foods for residents.

And another item on the top of her to-do list is finding efficiencies in order to save money. The budget is always tight and when there’s a vacant room, it eats away at their revenue.

“I’m looking for ways to save money to give residents a better quality experience,” she said.

While Chelsie has lots of plans for change, she’s also aware that too much change might not be welcome.

“I’m still trying to keep everything pretty similar for the residents,” she said. “I want to make sure everyone’s happy.”

The summer garden party and the annual fall gala fundraising dinner will continue.

One thing she will be looking for is more comfortable seating for residents. Many of the chairs are too low for them to easily get in and out of. 

“I am going to be calling around the Fredericton area to ask for donations from furniture stores for furniture that is more fit for seniors,” she said. “This is their home and they deserve to be comfortable.”

THE HOME
Farraline Place is next to the NB Legislature on Queen Street. It has 19 private bedrooms and one respite room. Some rooms have a private bath, and some are furnished. The rental price varies.

The residence is for independent seniors in reasonably good health who might need some supports.

The home offers all meals cooked onsite, plus weekly housekeeping and laundry services.

Residents enjoy daily activities, including exercise and bingo. Holidays and events are celebrated with parties and services. Dean Geoffrey Hall offers a monthly communion service. 

Currently, the home had several vacant rooms and an empty respite room. It also was seeking a full-time cook.

For information on the rooms or the job vacancy, contact Chelsie:  farralinehome@rogers.com or call 506-455-6443.

Farraline has a staff of nine full-time, one part-time and one casual position.

“I see a bright future here for the residents and myself,” she said. “Even now I can tell who’s coming to my office door just by their footsteps.”

PHOTO CAPTION
Chelsie Ogden is seen at her desk at Farraline Place in downtown Fredericton. Chelsie is the new director of care and operations, replacing Judy O'Donnell, who retired last fall.  McKnight photo