St. Leonard’s Home, a senior living facility in Hollidaysburg, has provided housing and personal care assistance to seniors in Blair County for 75 years. The decision to close its doors was made due to difficult economic times and staffing challenges impacting the healthcare industry, according to President Sister Cynthia Meyer. The brick mansion, originally named Sunset Hill, was constructed by Peter Shoenberger Duncan, a wealthy industrialist, and owner of iron and clay mines. Following World War II, Leonard Miller purchased the home and later sold it to the Catholic Church for $1 for use as a care facility for the elderly.
Since its opening in 1947, St. Leonard’s Home has been a place where residents received furnished rooms and personal assistance with activities including medication administration, housekeeping, laundry, maintaining personal hygiene, and more. The staff at St. Leonard's Home provided round-the-clock care for the 17 remaining residents until they were all successfully relocated to new living arrangements. The Sisters of the Holy Family of Nazareth, the governing body, have not yet determined the future use of the building once the facility closes.
Sister Cynthia Meyer expressed gratitude for the community’s support over the years, acknowledging all who have contributed to the care and well-being of the residents. Despite the closure, efforts have been made to ensure a smooth transition for both residents and staff. The focus remains on the well-being of the remaining residents and helping them settle into their new homes with minimal disruption. St. Leonard’s Home has served as a place of comfort and care for the elderly in the community, and its legacy will be remembered for the support and compassion it provided to those in need.