To help protect residents during power outages, a senior living facility in Wayland, Iowa, has replaced a failing backup generator thanks to support from a $21,745 Washington County Riverboat Foundation grant.
Here's what to know
Parkview Home, which houses roughly 35 residents, has completed installation of the $43,000 generator, according to KCII Radio. The foundation grant covered about half the cost, with Parkview Home funding the remainder.
The grant was awarded through the foundation's Spring 2026 funding cycle, which distributed $2,349,549 across 15 projects serving Washington County and nearby communities. At Parkview Home, residents had faced safety risks and service disruptions when the previous generator failed to provide power during outages.
More background
Ron Semler, the Parkview Home executive director, described the problems with the facility's old generator.
"We did lose power several times this year while our old generator was not turning on," he explained, per KCII. "We had multiple issues, and of course, when you have a breakdown in a generator, that's like a chain effect. People can't receive their services."
He also emphasized the risks to residents, noting that, when the power goes out without a backup source, "safety is compromised in our building."
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What's being done?
With the replacement in place, Parkview no longer has to depend on the malfunctioning generator during outages. Semler described the installation as trouble-free, according to KCII Radio.
The facility receives its regular electricity service from Alliant Energy, with the new generator providing backup when needed. To meet operational guidelines, Parkview must operate the generator weekly to ensure everything is running smoothly.
"We just needed a return to an operation where people can be safe, our building can stay secure, and the community can rely on us in taking care of their loved ones," said Semler, per KCII.
Where can I learn more?
Backup power is important beyond just keeping the lights on, since electricity is needed to power medical equipment and keep food safe.
• Oregon customers relying on medical equipment could receive up to $1,000 for backup power.
• After four powerless days, a Florida homeowner learned a whole-home generator costs about $15,000.
• A dealer pitched a $19,500 generator, while homeowners suggested options costing under $12,000.
• A homeowner's retired backup generator failed during a storm, leaving the house without power.
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