Almair Home celebrates 100th Anniversary

The Almair Home, located at “Banavie”, 4th Avenue Belleville, St. Michael celebrated its 100th anniversary on Wednesday with a special luncheon, which was attended by its nine residents, committee members, and its board of trustees and benefactors.

President of The Almair Home, Jean Kerr, in her brief address ahead of the start of the luncheon, reflected on the changes made over the years to the home, which is one of the oldest assisted care institutions on the island, for the elderly.

“Today, we remember with love and appreciation the first Committee, whose vision it was to open a home for indigent and elderly ladies,” she remarked.

Quoting from a written report about the inception of The Almair Home, Kerr further stated, “On January 23, 1916, Mrs. Honeychurch invited certain ladies and gentlemen to meet at Merrywing Hall, to discuss the founding of a Home for Indigent and Elderly Ladies. Mrs. Honeychurch states that Mr. Challenor Lynch who was in agreement with the movement, had given 500 pounds towards the purpose.”

Kerr went on to note that the first property was in Pinfold Street, Bridgetown, and it was purchased for 800 pounds. The 500 pounds donated by Mr. Lynch, was used as the deposit.

“With a diligent and hardworking Committee, the home was opened on May 24, 1917. The Almair Home was registered as a Charity in 1921,” the President revealed. She however added, “There have been some small changes. The Almair Home moved from Pinfold Street to “Banavie”, 4th Avenue, Belleville in 1960”.

“In 2009, our Committee agreed to ask the Trustees for permission to take in gentlemen and this [request] was granted,” she also commented.

Noting that research is being carried out at the moment to produce a small booklet marking the 100th anniversary of The Almair Home, Kerr stated that this should be finished by Christmas.

She meanwhile thanked all of the past presidents and committees, who had previously worked tirelessly to help with fundraising efforts and the general upkeep of the home. Kerr also thanked all of the charities and service clubs, as well as local businesses that made donations.

Special mention and thanks also went to benefactor Gloria Mendes who was present, for the great support and donations received from her Gloumeau Trust, which helps the home to remain open.

Expressions of thanks were also issued to the present Committee, to Matron Donna Small and to the present staff of the home, who Kerr noted are “real gems”. (RSM)