A heartfelt addition is bringing warmth and comfort to guests at Katie’s Cottage, thanks to community input and a shared vision for compassionate care.
Katie’s Cottage, located across from Boundary Trails Health Centre in Winkler, is a welcoming “home away from home” for families and caregivers of hospital patients. Operated by the Katie Cares Foundation and inspired by Kaitlyn “Katie” Reimer’s vision, the cottage offers overnight stays and daytime respite with comfortable guest rooms, shared kitchen and lounge spaces, and a peaceful, supportive atmosphere.
Continued growth, dreams fulfilled
A longtime dream of the organization has come to life with the transformation of Room 3 into a cozy, welcoming lounge for guests who are often facing stressful and emotional circumstances. Ruth Reimer, who oversees the Katie Cares Foundation, shared that the change was spurred by guest feedback. In the winter months, with parts of the cottage locked after hours, guests often felt confined to their rooms. The new lounge offers a space to relax, visit, and unwind.
Comfort in troubled times, supported by the community
The room includes games, firm yet comfortable furniture for those with mobility challenges, and a locally donated quilt that reflects the warmth of Katie’s Cottage. A large-screen TV was added, and the entire space was made possible through support from the Morden Thrift Store.
“We always listen to our guests and try to provide the best care we can in their time of need,” Reimer says.
But the upgrades didn’t stop there. Thanks to support from the Cardinal Foundation in Winnipeg, all guest rooms now feature 42-inch TVs, purchased locally, further emphasizing Katie Cares’ commitment to supporting local businesses.
Guest usage continues to grow, with January through March each seeing at least two full-capacity weeks. Reimer shared that some guests have travelled from across the world to stay at the Cottage while loved ones receive care at Boundary Trails Health Centre.
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Katie’s Cottage is going strong after 8 years
Despite being eight years old, the facility is kept in pristine condition. “We passed our fire inspection with flying colours,” says Reimer proudly. Ongoing maintenance, from replacing worn equipment to serving a fresh continental breakfast with local jam and honey, is all part of ensuring guests feel safe and cared for.
Ways to help
As Katie’s Cottage looks to the summer, help is needed. Reimer says they are welcoming volunteers for both indoor and outdoor tasks.
Financial donations are always appreciated as well. “We’re always careful with how we spend that money,” she says, ensuring there’s always a reserve when something breaks down.
Reflecting on the legacy of her daughter Katie, Reimer becomes emotional. “I think she would be in shock with what has happened… I truly think she would be extremely pleased.”
Katie’s Cottage began as an idea scribbled on a napkin at her bedside. Today, it stands as a peaceful refuge for those walking through difficult days, just as Katie hoped it would be.
“I heard several guests say this morning,” Reimer shares, “’ I’m in a stressful situation… but I had such a good sleep, enjoyed my breakfast, the sun is shining, and it’s peaceful here. It’s just what I need.'”
Learn more about Katie’s Cottage here.
