News 12 First @ Five -- September 17, 2008

AUGUSTA, GA --With more than 2 million dollars in grants from the federal government, the Augusta branch of the Georgia War Veterans Nursing Home is making plans to see some big changes.

"We have 188 beds here so we're getting new kitchen equipment and that's going to be wonderful for the patients," said Kay Roland, director of nursing at the home.

The outdated kitchen will get new upgrades that include new stoves and ovens, serving lines and amenities.But the changes don't stop there.

"We may see some of the patients who were being discharged from the domiciliary care in Milledgeville," said Executive Director Charles Esposito.

Executive Director Charles Esposito says the Augusta home will open it's doors in any way possible for those needing a place to stay.

"We've got our admissions team on ready to accept applications to try and process those applications as soon as possible," said Charles Esposito.

But in the meantime, the home will continue to make plans to renovate the bathing areas to include additional showers and new whirlpools.
And to expand the activity area to accommodate families.

"We have some wives that come everyday and it's important to have a place to go with your spouse or family member and have a conversation that's very comfortable," said Kay Roland.

Comfort the home is happy they will now be able to provide.

"In my 23 years here. This is the largest grant money we've ever obtained. We've not had a project like this I don't think in 39 years," said Charles Esposito.

"We do all we can to take care of our veterans," said Kay Roland.

Charles Esposito told me along with the federal grant, they'll also receive 1.5 million dollars from state bonds to complete the 3.5 million dollar project.