As a longtime Auburn resident, I support the recent letter to the editor from Robin Dale, CEO, Washington Health Care Association. This is, indeed, “Time to support senior care” (Auburn Reporter, Feb. 14).

It is obvious that our society is unprepared for the needs of our aging population.

Rehabilitation and long-term care offered in a skilled-nursing facility is a critical part of the healthcare delivery system. That is why I am concerned that there is no not-for-profit skilled-nursing and rehabilitation facility in South King County. In my experience, this type of non-profit nursing home provides the best care for our loved ones and ourselves.

A group of Auburn civic and business leaders is doing something about this. We are volunteering our time and efforts to support the building of a health and rehabilitation center on the Wesley Homes Lea Hill campus, available to all of us in South King County.

Medicare and Medicaid certified, the center would have 36 private rooms with private bathrooms, providing dignity for residents and rehab patients. More than 80 percent of the rooms are projected for community usage.

Together, we have raised more than $1 million toward our $2 million goal to help build the $6.6 million health center. The City, Auburn Rotary and a number of committed individuals are generously supporting the campaign. Interested parties may contact the Wesley Homes Foundation at 206-870-1126.

Don’t the valued seniors of South King County – our retired teachers, nurses, policeman, small business owners, homemakers – deserve a brighter and healthier future? Let’s work together to get the job done.

– Sue Singer