Tom Rivers, Editor Posted on December 12, 2025 at 9:49 AM
Photo by Tom Rivers: Sue Jones stands outside Black Walnut Home Care, 13713 Allis Rd. She started her business last week with Nancy Donahue. There are several impressive black walnut trees on the property.
BARRE – A new option for long-term care assistance is now available in Orleans County. Sue Jones and Nancy Donahue have opened a home for three elderly people.
Black Walnut Home Care LLC can accommodate up to 3 residents. Jones and Donahue want to provide a safe place for older residents in a family atmosphere.
The two lived in New Hampshire for more than 10 years, providing in-home care for adults with developmental disabilities. They moved to Barre on Alice Road three years ago to be closer to Donahue's family.
Assisted living facilities are certified by the state but are not intended for medical purposes. They provide lodging, meals, medication management, laundry, outings, transportation to appointments, and other social activities.
“We both like working with people,” Jones said at Black Walnut, 13713 Allis Rd.
Black Walnut Home Care has two bedrooms and a single room. Rates are $2,500 per month for a single room and $2,300 per month for a double room. This includes accommodation, meals, transportation, and care (not including medical care).
Both Jones and Donahue have long careers caring for others. Since moving to Barre, Jones has worked in New York State, providing direct care assistance in several state group homes in the Batavia area. Donoghue has worked as an activity aide with seniors in Orléans Village in Albion, playing bingo, supervising outings and making crafts.
Jones said many local seniors live alone and struggle to complete daily tasks. Their children often live far away.
She and Donahue wanted to offer a more affordable option than most nursing homes. Prices are $2,500 per month for a single room and $2,300 per month for a double room. This includes accommodation, meals, transportation, and activities.
Jones and Donahue welcome people to take a tour to see if the site is suitable for their needs. Residents must like animals. There are dogs and cats inside, as well as horses, goats, and chickens.
Black Walnut also has a swimming pool and hot tub.
For more information, call Black Walnut at (585) 283-4281.
Sue Jones strokes a cat in the living room of Black Walnut Home Care. There are several cats and dogs on the property, as well as livestock.
