Community Corner

Des Peres Facility Can Assist Residents and Newcomers in Winter Weather

Richmond Heights resident Ray Davis was among those staying at The Quarters at Des Peres this week.

For Ray Davis, The Quarters at Des Peres is a place where he can get stronger. For others, it's available as an emergency shelter during winter weather.

The 83-year-old Richmond Heights resident began getting therapy at the facility shortly before this week's winter storm brought ice, sleet and snow to St. Louis. He had been experiencing difficulty walking, so employees of The Quarters have been helping him with strength-building exercises.

Therapy has been "going pretty good," and there's not a lot of time to "sit around and do nothing" because of the level of work he's doing to get stronger, Davis said.

Nor did staff at The Quarters waste time waiting to see what winter would bring, administrator Cathy Krege said. Ahead of this week's storm, employees stocked up on food and water so that it could be used by residents such as Davis. Staff made sure a backup generator was ready just in case and also prepared extra blankets and bedding in case family members needed to stay over.

The facility underwent maintenance and safety checks a few weeks ago to prepare for future winter storms.

"I was really proud of the way our plan came together," Krege said.

At least one person came to The Quarters temporarily because of the weather situation before being transferred to a hospital. Twenty-five staff members were on hand from Sunday through Wednesday in anticipation of the weather, she said.

The facility will continue to serve as a shelter in emergency weather situations. The cost of care is dependent on factors such as Medicare and Medicaid coverage—the facility accepts both—but The Quarters won't ever turn away someone in need, Krege said.

As for Davis, Krege said he has come a long way.

"Mr. Davis has worked super hard," she said. Staff are working with him with an eye toward getting him back home to Richmond Heights one day.

"I don't mind that goal," Davis said.


Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here

More from Clayton-Richmond Heights