Servant Living Center, located at 616 S. Front in Medford, is a long-term care facility that serves seniors and adults with mental health issues. Unfortunately, the center officially announced that it will be closing its doors later this summer. The decision to close was due to a staffing crisis that began before the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite efforts to keep the facility running, the same nurses were working seven days a week, leading to burnout and the inability to provide the level of care that residents needed.
The closure of Servant Living Center has had a significant impact on the town of Medford, as it was one of the city's largest employers. With the loss of around 50 staff members, many of whom lived in Medford, the town's job market is facing challenges. City officials are concerned about the impact on the local economy and are looking for ways to help market the building and potentially attract a new business to reopen it.
Over the years, the facility went through changes in ownership and underwent renovations after being damaged by a tornado. It has provided care for residents with various needs, including short-term care, younger individuals, and those with psychological issues. Despite the challenges, efforts were made to provide quality care for residents, many of whom have since been relocated to other facilities owned by Diakonos Group.
As the community grapples with the closure of Servant Living Center, there is hope that another company will step in to purchase and reopen the facility, either as a mental health facility or nursing home. The impact of losing a care facility that catered to vulnerable populations is being felt not just by the residents and staff, but by the entire town of Medford.