Deputy Prime Minister and MP for Wigram Jim Anderton was pleased to open the new geriatric hospital wing of Rannerdale Veteran’s home today.

The project was made possible by a Government contribution of $250,000 toward the cost, which is over $1 million. To date $1,130,000 has been raised.

“It is appropriate that we help provide necessary care for those who risked so much for all of us in foreign wars,” said Jim Anderton.

“There is growing community recognition of the sacrifice made by our old soldiers and it is only fair and just that the Government provides $1 for every $3 they are raising themselves toward this necessary hospital.”

Jim Anderton has visited Rannerdale on a number of occasions and is impressed with the standard of care, and support for the residents.

“The move away from the type of beds that were used in the 1950s to modern facilities appropriate for our old diggers shows how seriously the Rannerdale board is taking its responsibilities.

“I was surprised after my last visit to receive a letter signed by nearly all the residents, with their old military units and ranks, thanking the Government for helping Rannerdale. Really it is us that should be thanking them,” said Jim Anderton.

The average age of Rannerdale residents is around 80 years and there is only one woman resident.

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