Closing Date Announced For Nursing Home In Manchester

MANCHESTER, CT – A nursing home in Manchester will be closing for good by February.

That was the word Wednesday from Athena Health Care Systems, the parent company of Crestfield Rehabilitation Center & Fenwood Manor.

The nursing home is located at 565 Vernon St. in Manchester.

State officials approved the closure for 155-bed skilled nursing center on Nov. 23, after receiving the request a month earlier. On Wednesday, state officials approved a formal closure plan, according to the announcement. An anticipated closing date is expected to be on or about Feb. 5, 2024, or sooner, according to the announcement.

The staff at Crestfield Rehabilitation Center & Fenwood Manor has been working with residents and their families and responsible parties regarding transfers to other facilities, based on "their preferences and needs," officials said.

"The facility will not close until all residents are safely discharged out of the Manchester skilled nursing center," officials said.

Currently, there are 11 residents at the center.

The decision to file for closure was due to several factors, including the need for significant physical plant expenditures, staffing, rising operating costs, and "other financial considerations." They left Crestfield with no other option other than seeking closure, according to the filing.

"While necessary, the decision to file the petition and receiving the approval comes with a
heavy heart," said Larry Santilli, the president and CEO of Athena Health Care Systems. "I understand the profound impact this has on our residents and their families as they made this center their home. We will stand by them to ensure that all their needs are met with
the utmost care, compassion, and respect as we begin to relocate them to other skilled nursing locations. Their well-being continues to be our top priority, and we are dedicated to providing support every step of the way."

Santilli added, "I want to express my deepest gratitude to our incredible staff for their years of dedicated service to the center. Your compassion, hard work, and unwavering dedication have made a significant impact on the lives of so many. Your contributions have not gone unnoticed, and the legacy of your kindness will be remembered by all those you have touched."

Athena offered jobs to each employee at Crestfield and 68 percent of the center's workforce has accepted positions within the company's network, according to the announcements.

Athena purchased Crestfield Rehabilitation and Fenwood Manor in 2018.