Testimonials
“Since my family purchased on Big Island, three years ago, we have been witness to the important work Kate’s Rest is doing for community, economic and environmental prosperity. We are consistently impressed by Mr.Hart’s resourcefulness in the innovative programs he is implementing (such as aquaponic farming), in his management style and above all his kindness and generosity of his time and energy in the well-being of residents of the county. Kate’s Rest is an exemplary community of its nature and we feel deserves acknowledgement for it’s tireless and forward thinking contributions to Prince Edward County.” – Heggie Family, Kate’s Rest neighbours
“I first met Brian Hart five years ago when he attended a Board Meeting at Friendship United Church… he was really looking for was an opportunity for the residents to socialize with people in the community. This was the beginning of a wonderful friendship with the Kate’s Rest family. On our first few visits some were shy, and did not join us at the table for the meal, but as the time went by, trust and friendship grew, so we al knew each others names and personal things about everyone. They are always courteous, friendly, respectful and very grateful.” – Barbara Jean Murdoch-Brien, PEC resident
“Kate’s Rest has rescued many people from a life of homelessness. I have seen how people at Kate’s Rest have appreciated having a place to finally call ‘their home’.”– Walter McGee, PEC resident
“I think this is a worthwhile endeavour and more like it should be encouraged in our community to support affordable housing opportunities.” – Nancy Gale, PEC resident and member, Friendship United Church
“…this place saved my life and this is my home, the longest I’ve ever lived in one place in my life. It’s my dog’s home and my friends who live here and became family to me.” – Byron St. Amour
“Since I came here I’ve gotten a doctor, got on ODSP, went to an alcohol treatment centre for 30 days, established a good credit and finished my high school diploma.” – Duane St. Amour
“What I found here was a small community of people that support and try to help each other” – resident, Kate’s Rest
“Everyone that lives here are neighbours and friends to each other and that help each other out. We are all a secondary family to one another here.” – Lynnette Brough, Kate’s Rest resident
“This group home is like a secure extended family – where Brian encourages the residents to help each other, keep the grounds clean and have a sense of ownership to the environment that they live in. This is a good place for encouraging life skills and healthy community living.” – Marianne Malachowski, PEC resident
“Due to health issues and a heart attack I was unable to work. I was very grateful for Kate’s Rest help and generosity when I was welcomed into my new home.”– Terry Cooper, former resident, Kate’s Rest
“The eyes of our congregation members were opened, their hearts touched, and their faith significantly deepened through their interaction with the residents of Kate’s Rest. Through Brian’s devoted caring, those whom our contemporary society often considers the least important of all - are treated with love, admiration and respect.” - Rev Kirby Breithaupt, Minister, Marmora Pastoral Charge of The United Church of Canada and former Minister, Prince Edward North
“I am a registered personal support worker and I currently work at one of the nursing homes in Prince Edward County and I am a former resident at Kate’s Rest. My partner and I had nowhere to go and Brian welcomed up into his home. For many years now I’ve visited Kate’s Rest, sometimes on a weekly basis, to see my friends who live there.” – Melissa Williams, former resident, Kate’s Rest