Through tireless advocacy and collaboration with government and community stakeholders, these leaders brought that vision to life. The result was the establishment of Wing Kei Care Centre — a vibrant, resident-focused space designed with cultural values at its heart.

Today, Wing Kei operates a state-of-the-art care facility in Calgary, serving seniors from diverse backgrounds, including the Chinese, Korean, and Vietnamese communities.

Preserving Cultural Identities 

The heart of Wing Kei’s distinction lies in its dedication to preserving the cultural identities of its residents. Care here goes far beyond the clinical. It’s about nurturing the soul through meaningful connections to culture and heritage. During a recent visit, we saw this commitment firsthand. At lunchtime, the air was filled with the comforting aroma of authentic Asian cuisine. Residents gathered around tables enjoying a meal of steamed rice, tofu, hearty soup, and stir-fried vegetables — flavors reminiscent of their roots. Mealtime isn’t just about nourishment at Wing Kei; it’s a cultural touchstone, bringing the familiarity of home to every plate. 

But Wing Kei doesn’t stop there. The facility regularly organizes cultural festivities to celebrate traditions like Lunar New Year, Mid-Autumn Festival, and Chuseok. Imagine the dining hall adorned with bright red lanterns, the sound of traditional Chinese music filling the air, and residents laughing as they share mooncakes or watch lion dances on TV. These celebrations are not just events but opportunities for residents to relive cherished memories and strengthen their sense of belonging. 

A Holistic Approach to Care 

Wing Kei’s holistic approach extends beyond preserving culture. Here, care encompasses every aspect of well-being — physical, social, emotional, and spiritual. Planting sessions in the garden help residents stay active while connecting with traditions of mindfulness and balance. Chapel services are offered in multiple languages, ensuring that residents can nurture their spiritual lives in ways that resonate deeply. 

Even casual daily interactions reflect Wing Kei’s ethos. During our visit, a staff member gently guided some residents on how to play a board game, patiently listening as the resident shared stories of their childhood. Another resident sat with a staff member who had learned basic Mandarin phrases to help them communicate better. These moments, small but powerful, reflect Wing Kei’s mission to create a warm, family-like environment where every resident is cherished. 

Keeping Loved Ones Together 

One of Wing Kei’s innovative practices addresses a challenge many senior couples face: separation due to differing care needs. Recognizing the emotional toll this can take, Wing Kei has implemented policies to ensure couples can remain together, even as their health circumstances evolve. Imagine an elderly couple holding hands during a shared evening walk, their bond uninterrupted despite the complexities of aging. At Wing Kei, love stories continue to flourish, demonstrating the profound impact of keeping loved ones united.