Collier leaders will try again for a state-run VA nursing home

COLLIER COUNTY, Fla.- WINK News found out, Collier County leaders will try, again, to get a nursing home for veterans in the county.

“At the very end of their lives when they need the most care we need to be there for them,” said Collier County’s Director of Veteran Services, Amanda Townsend.

The county came in 3rd in last year’s selection process for a 7th VA Nursing home in the state, losing out to St. Lucie County.

On Monday, Governor Rick Scott announced he wants to allocate $7.4 million in the next budget for three new state nursing homes.  Collier County leaders say they will be applying because they have more than 18 thousand veterans over the age of 65.

“A lot of veterans in this area that deserve a nice place in the sun, did their time in Korea and Europe and now its time for them to stay warm,” said Gary Shanabarger, U.S. Marine Corps Veteran.

There’s no word on a time frame for the process.  Trust WINK News to get you any new information.