NEPTUNE, N.J. — The board of directors of United Methodist Communities (UMC) announced on May 3 that it sold its Ocean Grove, New Jersey campus, United Methodist Communities at Francis Asbury, to Sage Healthcare Partners. With a commitment to quality senior care, Sage has assumed full leadership and will continue to operate Francis Asbury as a senior living community.
The Board of Directors recognized 25 years ago that the building was not fitting into the model of operation to which United Methodist Communities was moving but invested heavily over the ensuing years to keep it operating and comfortable for the residents. The organization reached a point where that was no longer good stewardship of its resources. Consistent with John Wesley’s advice, “do no harm … do all the good that you can,” this decision allows Francis Asbury to remain intact for the current residents and staff.
Additionally, in contrast to UMC’s Strategic Plan and future direction, Francis Asbury does not offer the comprehensive continuum of services under one roof, as do United Methodist Communities’ four full-service campuses: Bristol Glen, Collingswood, Pitman and The Shores. Historically, United Methodist Communities has built, acquired, replaced and sold multiple facilities over the years, most recently in 2006 when Meridian Health purchased Manor by the Sea in Ocean Grove, a stand-alone skilled nursing community.
Sage Healthcare Partners’ commitment to quality compassionate care and excellent service and ability to transition seamlessly, yielding the opportunity for Francis Asbury’s current residents to continue living in a vibrant community, dominated the board’s choice. Sage understands that Francis Asbury associates deliver outstanding, values-driven care to the residents and desires the same strong and capable workforce. Therefore, UMC has made arrangements for all Francis Asbury associates to transition to Sage Healthcare Partners.
“While this sale marks change, the opportunity for Francis Asbury’s current residents to continue enjoying a vibrant community life with outstanding care, dominated our decision,” reports United Methodist Communities’ Board Chair, Virginia Samuel Cetuk.
United Methodist Communities will continue full operations of its nine retirement campuses and HomeWorks, offering independent and assisted living, long term care, rehabilitation, memory support, respite, hospice and palliative care, affordable senior housing, and home care to persons of all faith backgrounds.