Franciscan Care Services

West Point, Nebraska

Let us open our eyes and see the misery of the world, the wounds of our brothers and sisters who are denied their dignity, and let us recognize that we are compelled to heed their cry for help!  Pope Francis

Franciscan Care Services has seen the need and is taking action. We are building a nursing home in West Point.

“We have been asked repeatedly by community members to buy the local nursing home or start our own nursing home,” said Jerry Wordekemper, FCS president/CEO. “The community is frustrated and our seniors and families are in need. The majority of West Point seniors and families choose nursing homes in other communities because of their perception of current care available in the community.”

Wordekemper added FCS made numerous attempts to work with the local home without any response and the FCS board felt compelled to act. The board had also considered partnering with other firms involved in operating nursing homes but felt that the best fit for the community was to retain local control.

The new facility, with the proposed name of Franciscan Villa, will be built just north of the St. Francis Memorial Hospital.

“Our board has carefully examined this idea and we feel we have an obligation to provide the care the community wants and is seeking elsewhere. This decision is completely mission driven,” said Bill Kreikemeier, board president.

Wordekemper added, “Our nursing home will be operated to our standard of mission. West Point seniors deserve a high-quality nursing home facility and a level of care to match. The nursing home will also complete our continuum of care in the community.”

FCS is exploring pricing options with a 36- or 54-bed nursing home. Whichever size facility is built, the ability to expand will be designed into the plan.

Wordekemper said starting a nursing home is not an easy decision. The current financial climate is extremely challenging and nursing homes across Nebraska are closing, except in larger communities.

He added, “We are doing this because our board feels we are not serving our mission if we do not provide the dignity of care that is desired and deserved. We are doing this strictly based on our mission: to live and promote the healing mission of Jesus Christ.”