Nonprofit breaks ground on $35 million skilled nursing, rehab center

SARASOTA — Pines of Sarasota, a nonprofit rehabilitation and senior care community, marked the groundbreaking of a new 90-bed skilled nursing and rehabilitation center on its campus on Jan. 28.

The construction of the center is fully funded by a $35 million donation to Pines of Sarasota Foundation from the Esther & Harold Mertz Foundation, which also includes funding for a new child care and learning center on campus, according to a statement. 

The center will connect to the current skilled nursing building and replace several aging buildings, according to the press release. Along with 90 private resident rooms, the building will also include new kitchen and laundry facilities, which will allow for consolidation of campus services.

The project is the next phase in a campus master plan to update facilities.

“We are truly grateful for the work of the Esther & Harold Mertz Foundation to further their mission to show kindness and compassion toward those in need of aid in a manner that will provide hope, restore independence and bring happiness and gratitude into their lives," says Mike Ward, president and CEO of Pines of Sarasota, in the statement. "And we are humbled by their trust in Pines of Sarasota and Pines of Sarasota Foundation, and by their generosity to us to further our mission to provide compassionate healthcare and a fulfilling life for seniors, and to assist those who have outlived their resources.”

Pines of Sarasota Rehabilitation and Senior Care Community provides short-term and outpatient rehabilitation services, skilled nursing, memory care and assisted living as well as educational programs.