The Times - Serving Waitsburg, Dayton and the Touchet Valley

New service will specialize in providing care to clients in Waitsburg and Dayton

WAITSBURG – Elizabeth Gonzalez hopes to put her 21 years experience as a Certified Nurse's Assistant (CNA) to work by pairing reliable home health care providers with patients in the Touchet Valley. Her new agency, Ameri, will provide in-home care services not only in Walla Walla, but also in Waitsburg and Dayton, where it can be more difficult to find reliable care.

Business owners Elizabeth and Fred Gonzalez moved to Waitsburg in 2008. Until recently, Fred has operated the couple's businesses, Silver Star Construction and the Star Fitness gym, while Elizabeth has worked as a health care provider. Now it's Elizabeth's turn to step out on her own.

Over the course of 21 years, Gonzalez says she has had the opportunity to work at nearly all the hospitals and health care facilities in Walla Walla.

"My calling is the elderly. I started there and I've had some really great private care jobs and I really feel that's my calling," Gonzalez said. "I'm compassionate to their care and to see them in the nursing home setting – I'm not happy with that, which is why I chose to do it this way."

Gonzalez will provide care services herself, but also has both male and female employees that she will match with patients. "I have lots of good CNAs that I've worked with and have known all their lives, just waiting to be hired," Gonzalez said.

Ameri provides personalized care for the elderly, individuals who are recovering from surgery or illness, and will provide respite care for those caring for developmentally disabled children or adults.

"We'll offer personalized care to allow loved ones to lead dignified, independent lifestyles, as much as they are able," Gonzalez said.

Some of the services offered include: meal preparation or assistance, medication reminders, help with bathing and dressing, light housekeeping and laundry, and help with errands and appointments.

"I'll match each client with the best caregiver for their situation," said Gonzalez. "Family members being pleased with the person who is providing care to their loved one is of utmost importance."

Gonzales said that one of her main goals is to make reliable care readily available in Waitsburg and Dayton.

"Many of the agencies in Walla Walla have a hard time getting employees to come out this way. That's why a lot of people have to pick up and go to Walla Walla to be taken care of," she said.

Gonzalez said she is licensed and bonded and that she is able to bill insurance companies. Ameri can provide caregivers 24 hours a day, seven days a week, weekends and holidays included, she said.

Contact Gonzalez with questions or for a free assessment by phone at (509) 520-0313 or email her at ameri.wa@mail.com.