2 Blackberry Lane
Bennington, VT 05201
802-442-8525

Welcome to MissionCare at Bennington

Jess DeRing

Tabitha Davis-Barron

Administrator

Dear Residents, Families and Community Members: 

It is my pleasure to welcome you to MissionCare at Bennington.  Formerly known as Bennington Health and Rehabilitation Center, as of September 12, 2024, MissionCare at Bennington is now part of the iCare Health Network and is a specialized long term care center; the only one of its kind in Vermont.

The result of a partnership and contract with the State of Vermont, MissionCare at Bennington offers a model of care that supports people who need long- term, nursing home level of care in addition to mental health support for behavioral care needs and those with challenging social or justice-involved history. Residents are referred to the center for long term care from all around the State of Vermont. MissionCare’s clinical and behavioral programming is tailored to individuals with these diagnoses and needs.     

The MissionCare at Bennington campus was designed for and will continue to progress in creating a welcoming, comfortable atmosphere that contributes to each resident’s ability to enjoy his or her continuing life experience. Continue reading…



iCare Health Network Blog

All the latest news, discussion, and updates from the iCare Health Network team!

  • Construction is coming to an end on a brand-new, six-chair ‘dialysis den’ exclusively for residents at Westside Care Center in Manchester. Planned opening date next month! This state-of-the-art addition will allow the care center to provide on-site hemodialysis services to up to 36 residents. The den and dialysis program will create an environment of convenience and integrated care. Residents will not longer need to travel in challenging weather or worry about the complications of transporta…
  • iCare Health Network proudly joins long-term care providers across the country in celebrating National Certified Nursing Assistants (CNA) Week, taking place June 12–18, 2025. This year’s theme, “We Are Champions,” perfectly captures the spirit and strength of the dedicated CNAs who form the backbone of care in skilled nursing and long term care, including here at iCare. Every day, iCare’s CNAs go above and beyond to support not only the physical health of our residents but also their e…
  • Although Skilled Nursing Care Week took place a few weeks ago, the spirit of the celebration still lingers in our halls. The 60 West team came together to honor the unique stories and life journeys of our residents with a week filled with thoughtful activities, creative expressions, and joyful connections. From collaborative art projects to memory-sharing sessions, the community reflected on the threads that bind us—individual stories, shared experiences, and moments of joy.
  • From May 11th to 17th, 2025, iCare Health Network proudly joins the nationwide observance of National Skilled Nursing Care Week (NSNCW aka Nursing Home Week), following the American Health Care Association’s theme, “Tapestry of Life.” This year’s theme emphasizes the “vibrant, diverse experiences of residents in skilled nursing facilities—each individual a unique thread contributing to a rich and interconnected community.” At iCare centers across New England, Nursing Home W…
  • Fresh River Healthcare and iCare were proud to be Gold sponsors and walk in the Team Hope Walk at Chatfield State Park on May 4th. The walk was organized by the Connecticut Chapter of the Huntington’s Disease Society of America.  According to their website, The Huntington’s Disease Society of America (HDSA) is the premier nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of everyone affected by Huntington’s disease. From community services and education to advocacy and researc…
  • A recent meeting of iCare Health Network’s Therapeutic Recreation Directors centered on impactful topics such as process (not outcome) driven programming, behavioral health in group settings, food centered activities, and storytelling strategies. The team also explored ways to incorporate community resource organizations into our calendars as “courses” to support resident independence and growth.
“From a young age, we faced the daunting reality of our mother's illness. It was often overwhelming and left us questioning how we would persevere. How could we find the strength to carry on through the confusion, fear, and heartbreak? Yet somehow, we always found a way. We pressed forward, because love does that, even when things are heavy. We recognize that the work you do isn't easy. It requires immense time, patience, and emotional presence. Yet, your work is one filled with deep purpose. Whether through a simple act of kindness, a soothing voice on a hard day, or simply being there when someone is feeling lost, you offer light in places that can otherwise feel dark. You occupy a vital role in the lives of those you care for. Please understand that we see you, we respect you, and we are beyond grateful for what you do. On days when you feel overwhelmed or uncertain, remember this: You are not just capable; you are called to this work.”
~ Daughters of a MissionCare at Bennington Resident (May 2025)
“Five Star Review: I have just transitioned my brother to Mission Care. He is 58 with early onset Alzheimer's. It has been very challenging for him of course, but he seems to be adjusting well to life at Mission Care. One of the things i really like about this facility is that they have a lot of activities. The staff is very thorough, caring and responsive. I will post again after he has been there for a while.”
~ Kate Kirkwood via Google Reviews (April 2025)
“Since my mother became a resident at MissionCare, my anxiety about her physical and mental health has greatly diminished. With her diagnoses of dementia and depression, her care needs are quite intricate. I feel reassured by the quality of care she receives from the staff, and it brings me immense relief to know that she engages in a variety of activities organized by the recreation department. During our phone calls, she often expresses her happiness, which is truly uplifting to hear. With my background as a former director in health services and in public relations, I understand that facilities like MissionCare often face challenges, and the hard work of the staff can go unrecognized. Nevertheless, I can confidently say that the team at MissionCare is exceptional. The nursing staff consistently reaches out to update me about my mother’s care and any changes in her condition. Jennifer, the business office manager, is always prompt and helpful with my mother’s financial matters.”
~ Jennifer, Daughter of Resident -- (March 2025)
“It’s always hard to place someone further away but hearing how she is doing its worth it. You have given her a chance when nobody would and thank you for that! I look forward working with all of you again. I also want to thank Ellie who traveled to meet her, and for a great communication. It made my job much easier!”
~ Sanda Tosto, Lead Case Manager, Central Vermont Medical Center
“When I arrived at MissionCare, I was welcomed by the wonderful team who instantly made me feel at home—a feeling I have not experienced in over twenty years. I am so happy to be given this opportunity and I am grateful for the staff and my newfound family. It truly warms my heart. Now I can get involved with so many activities and help the staff whenever I can. What they’ve created here is truly wonderful, not only for me but for the other residents and everyone who joins us in the future. This is a place I am happy to call home.”
~ Resident Donald (December 2024)
“When my sister joined the facility, I had the opportunity to observe the immense dedication by countless individuals across various roles. From maintenance staff to nurses and administrative personnel to the recreation team, each person has demonstrated remarkable commitment and care in their work. From day one, Chris Oldham, Jennifer Madison, and Heather Moore went above and beyond to ensure my sister's transition into the center was smooth and comprehensible, avoiding what could have been a daunting process. Once she was settled in, the nursing staff and social worker immediately hit the ground to address the challenges we faced. Our family sincerely hopes that the incredible skills and talents of these dedicated employees are recognized, as they are the building blocks and foundation for navigating whatever lies ahead.”
~ Elias, Brother of Resident (October 2024)