SAULT STE. MARIE -- The Ontario Finnish Resthome Assocation in Sault Ste. Marie is planning a big expansion for its facility.

It's looking to build a new 128-unit, four-storey building that attaches to the old Mason Kaihla Kota nursing home, thereby doubling its size and capacity.

"Over the course of the next fifteen years or so, more than 30 per cent of our population will be over the age of 65," said Paul Belair, Ontario Finnish Resthome Assocation CEO.

"When you combine that with ongoing out migration of younger people, then you have a situation where there's going to be a large number of seniors and not a lot of family supports."

The Association is launching a new fundraising campaign with its foundation, aiming to raise $2 million.

"We want to make it better than basic, so this is all the extra furnishings and that kind of stuff," said Tarja Loewen, Ontario Finnish Resthome Foundation Chair.

"That's our mandate at the Resthome and with the money, we're certainly hoping to provide that."

However, launching a campaign in the midst of a pandemic will make things much more challenging for the organization.

Loewen said in spite of that, she's not worried one bit.

"I'm just amazed by the amount of support that we get," she said.

"So God willing, we'll carry on and just keep on doing it."

The association was at city council earlier this week, asking for its approval to apply for funding through the province.

That application has been put forward, which Belair said he's confident the foundation will get.