Vancrest Health Care Centers has announced plans to develop a new $15 million senior living campus in Wapakoneta in partnership with Grand Lake Health System. Located on the historic grounds of the former Auglaize County Home, the project will include a 64-bed skilled nursing facility and 35 assisted living apartments, expanding access to senior care services in the region.

The partnership brings together two local healthcare organizations committed to providing compassionate, high-quality care close to home. The new campus will offer a range of senior living and care options designed to support residents as their needs change.

“We are excited to start construction on this important project, as it will provide Wapakoneta and Auglaize County with a state-of-the-art senior living facility,” said Mark White, President of Vancrest Health Care Centers.

“This partnership reflects our shared mission to serve the people of Auglaize County with dignity, respect, and a personal touch,” said Shane Stewart, COO of Vancrest Health Care Centers. “Our goal has always been to provide care that feels like family—and this new campus embodies that philosophy.”

Cindy Berning, President and CEO of Grand Lake Health System, emphasized the importance of collaboration in expanding local access to care.

“By working together, we can ensure that local residents have seamless access to both hospital and long-term care services, supporting continuity of care and community connection,” Berning said.

A New Chapter for the Former Auglaize County Home

The Auglaize County Commissioners and administrative team played an important role in advancing the project by working with Vancrest to identify redevelopment opportunities for the former County Home property.

“We are proud to see the next chapter of this historic property written in a way that continues to serve the people of Auglaize County and surrounding communities,” said John Bergman, president of the Auglaize County Board of Commissioners. “The missions of Vancrest and GLHS align with our commitment to responsible stewardship and community well-being.”

Minster Bank will provide financing for the project, continuing its investment in Wapakoneta and the surrounding region. The bank has served Wapakoneta since 1992 and has roots in West Central Ohio dating back more than a century.

“Working alongside Vancrest and Grand Lake Health System is a meaningful opportunity to help bring an important local investment to life,” said Ron Meyer, senior commercial lender at Minster Bank. “We value the strong relationships that made this project possible and the lasting impact it will have on the Wapakoneta and surrounding communities.”

Designed Around Residents and Families

The Vancrest of Wapakoneta campus will offer skilled nursing, rehabilitation and assisted living services in a setting designed to support residents’ comfort, independence and quality of life.

The 64-bed skilled nursing facility will feature:

• A majority of private resident rooms, each with an adjoining restroom and private shower.
• A dedicated physical and occupational therapy area.
• Individual living spaces, lounges and recreation areas.
• Dining spaces, a bistro and a salon.
• A community room for facility activities and community events.

The campus will also include 35 assisted living apartments, available in efficiency and one-bedroom layouts. Each apartment will feature a private bathroom with a shower and a kitchenette equipped with a refrigerator and microwave.

Assisted living residents will have access to assistance with daily activities, three meals per day and organized activities, providing opportunities for social connection while supporting individual needs.

Construction and Community Impact

Construction is expected to begin in September 2026, with an estimated timeline of 18 months. Once open, the campus is expected to create new healthcare jobs while expanding access to senior living, skilled nursing and rehabilitation services for residents of Wapakoneta, Auglaize County and surrounding communities.

The project reflects a shared commitment by Vancrest Health Care Centers and Grand Lake Health System to strengthen local healthcare resources and help residents access the care they need close to home.

About Vancrest Health Care Centers

Vancrest Health Care Centers operates skilled nursing, rehabilitation and assisted living facilities in 12 communities throughout western Ohio, with a 13th facility under construction in Kenton. Vancrest is dedicated to delivering quality care in compassionate, modern environments.