Warmth and Laughter Radiate from This Laundry Room

More than clean clothes are generated in the laundry room at Helen Henderson Care Centre in Amherstview. When April Jordan is there, it’s full of laughter and lighthearted fun.

A member of the Housekeeping and Laundry Department at the popular retirement lodge and long-term care home for the past 22 years, April can often be heard before she is seen.

“Our department is fun. We’re welcoming to other people,” says the 47-year-old with her trademark smile and laugh. “Personally, I try to spread a lot of happiness and joy. This is our residents’ home, and they don’t want misery. Why not make them smile, if we can.”

Known for her energy, compassion and good sense of humour, April can always be counted on to show up for work and participate in theme days. “It’s nice when we involve the residents,” she explains about the programs and activities regularly planned for residents and staff, including her sister who works as a Personal Support Worker in the Nursing Department.

Married with two adult children, April lives in Bath and enjoys her job.

“I love it here,” she confirms. “It’s my second family. I like everything about this place. I enjoy my work to ensure residents receive clean laundry. I’m very particular.”

Talking while folding a bin of shirt savers in late November, April admits she appreciates the recognition as the home’s Staff Spotlight for December 2025. She is so good at her job, she doesn’t look at name tags as she folds clothes and places them in racks for transportation back to rooms. She knows how to remove ink stains with hairspray and warns of the impossibility of removing crayons and lipstick from clothing.

“Clothes are important to the residents and families,” April explains. “I like to ensure drawers are organized neatly and clothes are clean and well cared for. It helps that I work with a great group of people.”

When April is not at work, she can be found enjoying our warm Canadian summers at her trailer on O’Reilly Lake in Parham. She describes herself as happy, energetic, bubbly and slightly crazy in a positive and happy way.

“I don’t think I could ask for a better team than we have here,” she says thoughtfully about the workforce that cares for, and supports, the home’s approximately 170 residents. “I like to do a lot of extras for people. I will even help on the floor if I’m needed.”

Asked about her dreams and goals, April says she wants to travel because she’s never been out of Canada.

“I’m going somewhere before I die,” she says with conviction.

Speaking on behalf of the home, Environmental Supervisor Tim Keys notes, “April takes pride in her job at Helen Henderson. She brings a lot of laughter and joy to the residents and is always willing to go above and beyond to help. When not in the laundry room, April can be heard throughout the home singing in the hallways. It is a pleasure to see the happiness she brings residents.”

Helen Henderson Care Centre is grateful for the good work and playful attitude of April Jordan. To learn more about living or working in our home, please call 613-384-4585.