Administrative History

Donwood Manor Personal Care Home (as it is known today) was built in 1970 in North Kildonan--the north east section of the city of Winnipeg. It began as an 81-bed project sponsored by eight Mennonite Brethren Churches in Winnipeg (Elmwood, North Kildonan, Portage Ave., Central, River East, Fort Garry, Brooklands, and Salem). These eight churches agreed to raise 10% of the building costs with provincial and federal grants providing the remainder of the construction and maintenance costs. A renovation project completed in 1996 resulted in an expanded and improved environment for residents totaling 121 beds.

Donwood Manor remains a faith-based organization administered by a board of directors under the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority. While operational costs are covered by the Province of Manitoba, an annual Donwood Manor Foundation fundraising event in the constituency raises the funds needed to a hire a part-time chaplain. The eight Mennonite Brethren churches that support Donwod Manor today include Eastview Community Church, Elmwood MB Church, Fort Gary MB Church, McIvor Ave. MB Church, North Kildonan MB Church, Portage Ave. Church, River East Church, and Westwood Community Church.

Donwood Manor Elderly Persons Housing, a 150-unit complex was constructed in 1974 and adjoined Donwood Manor Personal Care Home. In 1982, Donwood South, a 104-apartment complex was built on Henderson Highway with amenities to provide comfortable accommodations for independent seniors. Donwood West, a 60-unit life lease complex, was built in 1988. Donwood West is a non-profit corporation owned and operated by Donwood West, Inc. In 1997, the construction of the 48 unit, 55+ Life Lease complex was completed called Valhalla Cove. This building is a 55+ non-profit life lease complex sponsored by Donwood Managment, Inc.

The Donwood mission statement is: "Caring for Seniors with dignity, respect, and Christian values."