By Julie Bierach, KWMU
SAINT LOUIS, MO – Plans are underway to build housing for families of patients being treated by the Department of Veterans Affairs in St. Louis. The new Fisher House will be built on the grounds of Jefferson Barracks.
When veterans from across the Midwest come to St. Louis for treatment at the V.A Medical Center, they often bring family with them. The new 16,000 square foot Fisher House will be open to all family members free of charge.
Jim Donahoe is President of the Fisher House in St. Louis Board. He said the cost to construct the facility is estimated to be about $5 million dollars.
"The National Fisher House Foundation will put up half the money and then they ask us to raise the other half locally. And thus far we're about half way," said Donahoe.
Construction will begin this summer and will be completed next summer.
There are about 40 Fisher Houses around the country.