Work Set to Begin on Acacia Addition

A groundbreaking celebration for the much-anticipated addition to Acacia Adult Day Services will take place June 7.

Officials say the number of families with frail elderly or disabled adults who can be served by the nonprofit center will be doubled by the 8,600-foot expansion.

The two sections of the center will be joined by a solarium; the addition will include a larger activity room, private therapy and nursing areas, and shower and laundry facilities.

The board of directors contracted with Prime Time Builders in February for the $3-million project, but have $400,000 left to raise.

Executive Director Mallory Vega said the center will need to borrow the remaining money, but it plans to eliminate that debt through fund-raising and donations.

“We want to make it go away so we can focus on the clients,” Vega said.

The organization has provided care for the elderly since 1979 and has been operating out of the center since late 1997, with 60 beds for client care. Center officials realized they needed more space the following year and began working on plans for the addition. Vega says there are about 16 centers in Orange County that provide services for seniors who are not ready for a convalescent home but are no longer independent.

The Acacia services include physical, occupational and speech therapy; individual treatment plans; therapeutic activities; adult education programs; nursing and personal care; and meals.

“Many baby boomers are facing decisions about care for their parents,” Vega said. “Because they receive meals, medicines and help they need during the day while their adult children work or care for their own children, adult day care allows the frail or disabled family member to remain active and independent.”

The community is invited to attend the June 7 groundbreaking, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., which will feature hot dogs, apple pie, music and tours of the center and the new, adjoining site. The center is at 11391 Acacia Parkway. Information: (714) 530-1566.

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Chris Ceballos may be reached at (714) 966-7440.