The New R.K. MacDonald Nursing Home

The Government of Nova Scotia has approved the development of a state-of-the-art RK MacDonald Nursing Home designed to meet the highest standards of long-term care. The new RK Nursing Home, located on Church Street Extension, will have ample access to daylight, views of nature and integrated with the landscape.

Project Progress

Construction Start Date: Spring 2025
Opening Date: Winter 2028

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Updates

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What to Expect

The new RK will be more than just a facility; it will be a welcoming community space for families, volunteers, and 144 residents. We aim to create an environment where everyone feels at home.

Key Features

Private Resident Rooms

Each room is designed with comfort in mind, featuring private bathrooms to ensure privacy and convenience.

Accessible Outdoor Spaces

Residents will enjoy easy access to beautifully landscaped gardens and outdoor areas, perfect for relaxation family visits, community events, and recreational activities.

Bright and Climate-Controlled Environment

The new RK will offer an easy-to-navigate, light-filled, temperature-controlled environment to ensure residents’ comfort year-round.

Multipurpose Room

A versatile space for various activities, events, education sessions, and social gatherings, promoting engagement and community spirit.

The New RK, Getting Started

Sep 10, 2025

We’re very excited to share these pictures of the new and upcoming RK MacDonald Nursing Home’s land being cleared.

Groundbreaking Ceremony for the New RK MacDonald Nursing Home

Jun 18, 2025

The Groundbreaking Ceremony for the new RK MacDonald Nursing Home took place on June 11th, 2025. Thank you to everyone who has helped bring us to this moment.

Construction Start Date for the New RK MacDonald Nursing Home

May 8, 2025

Full mobilization of the new RK home will begin in the coming weeks. Preliminary work has begun on Church Street Extension.

"An Exciting Day"

This is an exciting day for the RK, our residents and staff, and the Antigonish community. The future for all of those connected to the RK is brighter, and we look forward to seeing the positive ripple effects it will have throughout the community.

– Terry MacIntyre, CEO, R.K. MacDonald Nursing Home

"It's A Promise"

The new RK MacDonald Nursing Home will be such a welcome environment for staff, seniors and families in the region. This new home isn’t just a building. It’s a promise that we’re committed to providing top-notch care for seniors, and a place for them to call home where they can feel safe, comfortable, and valued.

– Barbara Adams, Minister of Seniors and Long-Term Care

"A Modern Long-term Care Facility"

Having worked on the frontlines as a care provider and in leadership roles at the RK MacDonald, I know the importance of this facility and its staff to its residents, their families, and the broader Antigonish community. A new RK is a significant step to ensuring seniors in our community know they will have access to a modern long-term care facility to live with dignity and enjoy high-quality care in comfortable surroundings.

– Michelle Thompson, Minister, Health and Wellness, Antigonish MLA

"For Families And The Broader Community"

The RK has been an important part of Antigonish for over six decades, providing exceptional care and support to our seniors. The construction of a new RK represents an opportunity to carry on its proud tradition in a modern residence. This new facility will not only serve as a comfortable and state-of-the-art home for our seniors but also as a welcoming space for families and the broader community. We are excited to see this project come to life and continue the legacy of care and community spirit that has been a hallmark of the RK.

– Laurie Boucher, Mayor, Town of Antigonish

"Vibrant Senior Living"

This development of a new RK is a testament to the Antigonish community’s commitment to ensuring our seniors receive the care they deserve. This is an exciting announcement that, when opened, will provide vibrant senior living and aligns with the region’s growth. It’s a great day for Antigonish!

– Owen McCarron, Warden, Municipality of the County of Antigonish

"Caring For The Elders of Our Community"

“The Congregation of the Sisters of St Martha has a long history with the RK. The beginnings of the RK were the culmination of years of planning by the Sisters of St Martha, clergy and many local citizens. Today’s vision for the new RK follows years of planning and hard work that aligns with our original commitment to providing loving and dignified care for seniors in our community. We have deep connections with the residents and pray for their well-being and the future of the RK. We are proud of the RK Board and of the staff and all involved in the oversight of the RK. We are excited to Bless the RK as they continue to be leaders in Caring for the elders of our Community.”

– The Congregation of the Sisters of St Martha

"Result of Collaborative Planning"

We are thrilled to see the new RK MacDonald Nursing Home redevelopment come to fruition. The new facility is a result of collaborative planning that meets the revised nursing home facility requirements. The key design elements, supported by research, suggest smaller households, private resident bedrooms and bathrooms, and readily accessible outdoor space are best practices for long-term care facilities. Our community will greatly benefit from the enhanced support this home will offer.

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– Fran Haley, Secretary of the Board, Chair of Project Steering Committee, Executive Committee, Finance Committee

"A Significant Milestone For Our Community"

Announcing the new RK MacDonald Nursing Home marks a significant milestone for our community. This modern facility showcases our steadfast commitment to providing enhanced care and continue a nurturing environment for our seniors. We are not just building a new home, but fostering a space where the comfort, and community spirit will continue to flourish for generations to come.

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– Camilla Benoit, Chair of the Board, Member of the Finance and Steering Committee

"Opportunities For Families & Community"

The Alzheimer Society of Nova Scotia provides programs and education on a variety of dementia-related topics. Having an education centre within the new RK MacDonald building will create more opportunities for staff, families and community members to connect and learn.

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– Beth Bennett (she/her), Regional Coordinator of Education & Outreach, Antigonish, Guysborough & Pictou County, Alzheimer’s Society of Nova Scotia

"Without change, there would be no butterflies."

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– Jane Gorman, Resident, R.K. MacDonald Nursing Home

We look forward to opening our doors and welcoming the community to the new RK MacDonald Nursing Home, where we prioritize care, comfort, and community connection!