MountainCare, a nonprofit providing adult day services, announced that their Buncombe Program is transitioning to a new location downtown in the First Baptist Church of Asheville (FBCA). This move, which will allow easy access and additional space, will be fully operational on August 28th, 2024.

MountainCare Adult Day serves community dwelling older adults with cognitive and/or physical impairments who benefit from socialization and meaningful activities in a safe, supportive environment. The program formed in 1986 as Mountain Geri-Care, became part of CarePartners in 1996, and returned to being an independent nonprofit in 2019 when HCA purchased Mission/CarePartners. The program resided at Sweeten Creek Road for nearly 30 years. The relocation to First Baptist Church is driven by a shared vision between MountainCare and FBCA.  The decision to lease space at FBCA was unanimously supported by the church's leadership, who recognized the alignment of their missions and the critical need for affordable, accessible space in Asheville.

"From the beginning, our leaders were drawn to how our church’s mission of Beautiful Belonging and history of special needs ministries align with MountainCare’s dedication to community and dignity for adults with special needs and aging adults," said Mack Dennis, Senior Pastor, and Stephanie Kiser, Chair of Deacons. "For nearly 40 years, MountainCare has provided vital support and care to thousands of families in our area, and we are honored to support this continued service.”

The move to Five Oak Street began earlier this spring, with MountainCare’s Mountain Explorers program and administrative teams relocating to the church's fourth floor. The main Adult Day Program will now join them on the first floor, in a space that offers enhanced accessibility, a large parking lot, and an easily navigable entrance. The FBCA campus, which also houses the Academy of the Arts, First Baptist Child Development Center, and First Kids Preschool, is a vibrant community hub, providing a welcoming environment for all participants.

MountainCare is also pleased to announce that the new facility has room for additional enrollments. As they settle into their new home, they look forward to expanding services and welcoming more individuals who need their support.  In addition to providing a program for older adults with cognitive and physical challenges, MountainCare provides respite and support for their caregivers.  Elizabeth Williams, Executive Director of MountainCare, expressed optimism: “This partnership with First Baptist Church of Asheville not only provides us with a wonderful new space but also opens up new opportunities to better serve our community. We are filled with hope and excitement for what the future holds.”

The community is invited to stay tuned for an upcoming invitation to visit the new space at Five Oak Street and see firsthand the welcoming environment created for participants. Doors will open on August 28, 2024, and MountainCare is ready to continue their nearly four-decade-long mission of providing care and support to those who need it most.